Overview

• After three consecutive first-round playoff exits, Antetokounmpo is considering options outside Milwaukee for the first time in his career.
• Bucks executives are reminding him that Achilles injuries to the Celtics’ Jayson Tatum, 76ers’ Joel Embiid and Cavaliers’ core have reshaped the conference landscape.
• Damian Lillard’s season-ending Achilles tear has left Milwaukee’s roster depleted and intensified Antetokounmpo’s decision.
• Paul George predicted on his podcast that Antetokounmpo will remain loyal to the Bucks, noting international stars often stay with their initial franchises.
• Carmelo Anthony urged the franchise to work with its existing core despite Lillard’s absence rather than undertake a complete rebuild.