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Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Decision With Bucks Gets an Update: Insider
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Milwaukee Bucks have been extremely active in the NBA offseason. They've re-signed valuable role players at the start of free agency, surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo with reliable and familiar players to potentially help him contend for a championship.

However, the Bucks reportedly made Antetokounmpo upset when they waived his co-star, Damian Lillard. Milwaukee decided to let go of the injured star to accommodate the free agency signing of Myles Turner. The former Indiana Pacers center agreed to a four-year, $107 million deal, which is an upgrade from Brook Lopez.

Even though the team secured a decent starting center, their method of cutting off Lillard wasn't pleasing to Antetokounmpo's eyes.

There isn't any assurance if Lillard's release would affect Antetokounmpo's loyalty. Heading into the offseason, there have been reports that the Greek Freak is open to joining a different winning organization. However, a decision is yet to be done by the one-time Finals MVP.

On Thursday, ESPN's Ramona Shelburne gave an update on when the decision will be made. According to the NBA insider, major decisions related to Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee might stall until later into the offseason.

"My sense is just from conversations around the league, I don't think anything will be decided on his end until August, September, because big deals or anything like that, whether he goes or stays, that kind of decision won't come until later in the summer," the insider said.

The Eastern Conference is predicted to be weak heading into the 2025-26 season. There are major stars who will be recovering from season-ending injuries. This means it's the perfect time for the Bucks to contend for the championship.

But that won't happen if Antetokounmpo decides to leave the franchise. Before the 2025 playoffs ended, the longtime Bucks star has hinted his return to the Milwaukee team. However, the organization needs assurance that he'll stay put and continue his career with the team that drafted him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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