NBA rival execs root for Bucks’ downfall to open the door for Giannis Antetokounmpo's departure: Report

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has dominated the league for some time, including winning the NBA title in 2021. However, they have struggled mightily in the playoffs the past few seasons, struggling to get past the second round.

In 2022, they were eliminated by the eventual Eastern Conference champions, the Boston Celtics, in seven games. After that, Milwaukee had a humiliating 2023 postseason, losing to the Miami Heat in the opening round.

During the 2024 playoffs, fans were hopeful to see the Bucks in playoff mode. Before the season started, they traded for Damian Lillard, upgrading their offensive arsenal with a proven All-Star. However, injuries plagued the team before the first round even started, and the Bucks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in six games.

Because of this, many believe that Antetokounmpo is growing frustrated with the Bucks organization. According to The Athletic's Sam Amick, rival executives are hoping to see Milwaukee's downfall soon to have the chance at snatching the Greek Freak away from the franchise.

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"As I shared with Antetokounmpo, rival front office executives are hoping the Bucks fail miserably so that he might consider an NBA life outside of Milwaukee," Amick reported. "If (Damian) Lillard struggles to be at his best again in a Bucks jersey, trade calls will inevitably come Milwaukee’s way about him."

So far, Antetokounmpo has not requested a trade from the Bucks. However, with the lack of follow-through after winning the 2021 championship, the forward's future with the organization seems uncertain.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo understands the pressure for the 2024-25 NBA season

There's a lot at stake for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks this season. Following the trade for Damian Lillard, the team hasn't had much success, especially in the postseason. For the Greek star, he believes that failing to win the title this season could mean his future in the organization.

"Do you have something in your mind like, 'What if this year doesn't go well?' Yes, if we don’t win a championship, they could replace me. Yes, this is the job we live in. This is the world we live in. It happens to everyone," Antetokounmpo said.

"Seriously, this is the job. It's the profession we're in. At any moment, if you don't succeed, that could be the end for us. It was the same with the previous coaching staff, and the year before, the previous players. ... If you don't do a good job, you're out."

Although there isn't any confirmation that the one-time NBA Finals MVP could get traded if they don't win this season, the forward has heavily considered it.

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