Milwaukee Bucks News

Home

Quizzes

Watch

Newsletter

“He Had a Fire That He Wanted to Let Out” - Milwaukee Bucks Star Had Help From Former All-Star Kevin Garnett 19 Apr 29, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

'Not a Contender!' — NBA Insider Says Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks Are Holding Him Back

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Oct 7, 2025 8:39 AM ET

Giannis Antetokounmpo sees a future with the Milwaukee Bucks, which is why he’s remained loyal as he enters his 13th season in the NBA. Antetokounmpo has won a lot as a member of the Bucks. He’s been an MVP, a Defensive Player of the Year, a multi-time All-Star and a champion. However, the team has struggled over the past three seasons, losing in the first round during that stretch.

Additionally, this season, the Bucks lack a competitive bunch surrounding Antetokounmpo. Last year, the Greek Freak’s longtime co-star, Khris Middleton, was traded to the Washington Wizards for Kyle Kuzma. After the club lost to the Indiana Pacers in the playoffs because of Damian Lillard’s ruptured Achilles, the management staff also released him.

Even with everything that has happened to the team, Antetokounmpo believes they have what it takes to contend for a championship.

However, NBA insider Howard Beck doesn’t think Antetokounmpo and the Bucks have what it takes to contend for a title. Beck gave his thoughts on the Milwaukee franchise The Ringer NBA podcast on Saturday.

“I don’t think the Bucks are that good,” Beck said. “They’re good enough, they’re a playoff team, but they’re not a contender. And Giannis keeps just saying… ‘I want to win championships and I want to be where I can win championships.’ I don’t think that’s Milwaukee right now, as currently constructed.”

The league insider also addressed that there could be a chance for Antetokounmpon to ask for a trade if the Bucks suffer early-season struggles.

“I don’t know that he’s going to ask out in the middle of a season, but I just think any Bucks’ struggles are going to underscore the fact that he’s a free agent in two years and has made it very, very clear that he wants to contend while he’s still in his prime.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t feel 100% after recovering from COVID-19

“He’s Going to Accept That Challenge” - Milwaukee Bucks Star Giannis Antetokounmpo Predicted to Win MVP Next Season 5 Apr 10, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

The Bucks’ training camp started without Giannis Antetokounmpo as he tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. He had to stay in Greece to recover from the virus. Over the weekend, the nine-time All-Star arrived in Milwaukee to be with the team. However, he’s still doing non-contact workouts, as he’s still suffering from the aftereffects of the virus.

According to the Greek star, the virus took a toll on his body, and he isn’t 100%.

“I think it took a toll on my body. I’m not feeling 100 percent yet physically,” Antetokounmpo said. “Just taking it day by day, getting back in shape. I was able to do some 5-on-0, run up and down a little bit. Tomorrow I’ll be a little better. I’ve got like 18 days until the first game, so I think I’ll be fine.”

As Antetokounmpo recovers, the Bucks have begun to get ready for how they would begin the season.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: