Sources - Giannis Antetokounmpo to explore best fits outside of Milwaukee - ESPN
As decision-makers for all 30 NBA teams descend upon Chicago for the draft combine this week, there will be substantive conversations around the biggest unknown and domino of the offseason — Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The two-time NBA MVP has not made any firm decisions on his Bucks future after the franchise's third consecutive postseason exit in the first round, but for the first time in his career, Antetokounmpo is open-minded about exploring whether his best long-term fit is remaining in Milwaukee or playing elsewhere, league sources told ESPN.
Teams have approached the Bucks frequently over the years about the availability of Antetokounmpo as a normal exercise, and are expected to ramp up due diligence during combine week, according to league sources.
But any conversations surrounding the perennial All-NBA superstar and 2021 NBA champion start primarily with where he believes his long-term future lies, and whether there is a franchise outside of Milwaukee that is sensible for him.
The Bucks and Antetokounmpo's representatives, Giorgios Panou and Alex Saratsis, are expected to sit down during the offseason to discuss the future, sources said.
For the rest of the NBA, team executives, coaches and players all understand the landscape-altering focus on Antetokounmpo's future and how it impacts all 30 franchises. From the draft lottery on Monday night to draft night in June, the prospects of Antetokounmpo being moved loom largest on league movements.
Antetokounmpo is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds and 6.5 assists on 60% shooting in 67 games and finishing in the top three of MVP voting. It's his second consecutive season averaging 30-10-5 on 60%