So tired of the cyber attacks. I get it, a lot of you don’t like what I write. Shame you don’t believe in free speech. I have nobody paying me to do this nor an active NBA player to bankroll cyber defences.
Moved to the public version of WordPress.
Maybe spend more time seeing how much I got right and wondering if you are believing the hype instead of looking at the stats.
The NBA’s Eastern Conference is a gauntlet of talent, and as we wrap up the first full week of the 2025-26 season (October 20-26), the league handed out its Player of the Week honors. Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo snagged the Eastern nod, averaging a monstrous 36.0 points, 16.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists on 68.3% shooting across his games. On paper, it’s the kind of stat line that screams dominance—especially capping it off with a 40-point, 14-rebound, nine-assist masterpiece on Sunday. But let’s pump the brakes. In a week where the East’s guard play lit up the league and under-the-radar performers flipped narratives, Giannis’s award feels like a default nod to the Greek Freak’s reputation rather than a true meritocracy.
Player of the Week should celebrate the players who single-handedly elevated their teams amid tough schedules, overcame adversity, or simply outshone the field in impact. Giannis had a great week, sure, but he wasn’t the only one carrying a franchise on his back—or dropping jaws with rookie audacity. He played two games against two of the worse in the NBA and only one against a decent opponent (who the Bucks lost to).
Just look at that truly pathetic shot chart. It is Giannis so far this season. No mid range at all. No skill. No improvement. Still terrible at the free throw line. A one trick pony that we all know will fail in the playoffs.
If we’re talking all-around brilliance, LaMelo Ball is the name that should’ve topped the ballot. The Hornets guard orchestrated Charlotte’s surprising 3-1 start, averaging 23.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and a league-high-tying 8.0 assists per game while flirting with triple-doubles nightly. In a Wednesday blowout win over the Wizards, LaMelo dropped 20 points and eight dimes with just three turnovers, turning a middling roster into a fast-break frenzy.
Giannis? He’s got Damian Lillard and a stacked frontcourt to lean on. LaMelo’s doing this with training wheels still on for the Hornets’ rebuild. His flair—those no-look passes and deep bombs—has Charlotte relevant again, and his efficiency (45.5% FG) proves he’s matured beyond the meme. Player of the Week isn’t just about raw points; it’s about making your team better. LaMelo did that in spades.
New York Knicks fans know Jalen Brunson as their closer, and this week, he was surgical. Averaging 30.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, Brunson torched defenses en route to a 3-1 Knicks record. His Sunday explosion—37 points, seven assists, and three steals in a heartbreaker against Miami—nearly willed the Knicks to victory despite a brutal road slate.
Compare that to Giannis: The Bucks faced softer competition, Brunson’s doing it from the guard spot, navigating double-teams with skill and style. Brunson’s 45.3% shooting isn’t gaudy, but his mid-range mastery and poise in crunch time (hello, game-winners) make him the East’s most reliable star right now. The Knicks are contenders because of him—not in spite of him.
Hold onto your seats: In his NBA debut week, VJ Edgecombe—the No. 2 overall pick out of Baylor, now lighting it up for the Heat—averaged 24.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists on 46.3% shooting. This 19-year-old Bahamian blur transitioned seamlessly from college dominance to pro savagery, capping preseason hype with real-season fireworks (think 26 points and five steals in a Friday thriller).
Rookies rarely sniff Player of the Week, but Edgecombe’s two-way terror—disrupting passing lanes while slashing to the rim—has Miami’s revamped backcourt humming alongside Jimmy Butler. Giannis is a veteran MVP; Edgecombe is rewriting the rookie script. In a league obsessed with youth, snubbing him feels like ignoring the next big thing.
Tyrese Maxey is playing like a man possessed, averaging a blistering 34.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 7.5 assists to propel the Sixers to a 4-0 start. His midweek eruption—40 points on 7-of-9 from deep, plus six assists—dismantled the Knicks in a statement win, all while Embiid nurses a minor tweak.
Maxey’s 45.5% efficiency belies his explosiveness; he’s the East’s fastest scorer, turning turnovers into transition daggers. Giannis dominates inside; Maxey owns the break. With Philly eyeing another Finals run, Maxey’s week wasn’t just stats—it was a coronation. Why reward the expected when lightning like this strikes?
Donovan Mitchell feasted in October, averaging 35.5 points on 55.0% shooting, 11.0 boards, and 4.0 threes per game across the Cavs’ undefeated streak. Even in a “down” game (17 points Tuesday), he stuffed the stat sheet with steals and triples, but his highs—like 40-plus explosions—powered Cleveland’s defense-first identity.
At 30.0 points for the season already, Mitchell’s the East’s most dynamic scorer, blending volume with victory (Cavs 4-0). Giannis rebounds like a monster, but Mitchell’s creating his own gravity without a true big man next to him. Cleveland’s atop the standings because Spida’s dialed in—full stop.
Last but not least, Norman Powell—fresh off his offseason move to Miami—emerged as the Heat’s X-factor, averaging 21.5 points and a surprising 7.5 rebounds with 2.5 assists on 48.3% shooting. His Wednesday clinic (28 points, nine boards, four dimes) sparked a comeback win over the Knicks, proving he’s more than a microwave scorer—he’s a full-course meal.
Powell’s rebounding surge (up from last year’s 3.2) fits Miami’s gritty ethos perfectly, and at 24.0 points per game overall, he’s outpacing his career norms. Giannis is the Bucks’ alpha; Powell’s the Heat’s glue guy elevating a contender. In a week of guard galore, his versatility got slept on.
Giannis is a lock for All-NBA, no doubt. He will probably set his bot army to fake vote for him (allegedly!) like they did the past seasons. But Player of the Week? This honor belongs to the innovators, the overachievers, the ones turning heads when no one’s watching. Ball’s vision, Brunson’s clutch gene, Edgecombe’s rookie rage, Maxey’s blaze, Mitchell’s firepower, and Powell’s grit all outshone the Freak this week. The East is deeper than ever. Stop defaulting to the big name and start celebrating the symphony. Giannis doesn’t impact games that matter. He played two easy opponents and failed when it mattered. Worse still, the way he plays is killing his team, a ball hog in every sense of the word.
On paper, Giannis Antetokounmpo dropped another monster stat line—40 points, 14 rebounds, 9 assists, nearly a triple-double with 2 steals and 2 blocks to boot. He shot an absurd 70% from the field (14-20 FG) and was basically a walking highlight reel. Stats don’t tell the whole story. Last night at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, amid a shorthanded roster (no Kevin Porter Jr., Cole Anthony, or Kyle Kuzma), Giannis performance had some cracks that the Cavs exploited like a leaky defense in pickup ball.
The Shooting Splits: Efficient, But Not Elite
Giannis finished 14-of-20 from the field, which sounds like vintage Freak mode. But peel back the layers: That efficiency was built on paint dominance (think drives and putbacks), not the all-around threat we saw in his prime. He went 1-of-1 from deep—cool, but one attempt? In a game where Cleveland’s perimeter defense sagged off him just enough to dare a jumper, he didn’t test them. Last season, he averaged over 2 three-point attempts per game; here, it was a measly one. The Cavs packed the lane with Evan Mobley (23 points, 8 boards) and Jarrett Allen, forcing Giannis into that 11-of-16 free-throw line trip. Solid? Sure. But 69% from the stripe (11-16) isn’t closing territory—those five misses at the line were daggers in a five-point defeat.
And don’t get me started on true shooting percentage. At 74%, it’s good, but in a high-volume night like this, you’d want north of 80% to drag a depleted Bucks squad over the finish line. Donovan Mitchell (24 points, including 10 in the clutch fourth) and Sam Merrill (17 off the bench, tying Giannis for game-high at halftime) feasted because Giannis couldn’t stretch the floor. He again had 0/2 from mid range, exactly like previous two games of the season. Pathetic and it’s killing his team.
Fourteen boards? That’s Giannis being Giannis—aggressive, physical, snatching every loose ball like it’s his birthright. But here’s the rub: The Bucks got out-rebounded 51-44 overall, with Cleveland grabbing seven more on the offensive glass for second-chance points that proved fatal. Giannis had the volume, but where were the contested boards against Mobley, who boxed him out masterfully? Midway through the third, the Cavs led the rebound battle 30-17 while up by 16. Milwaukee clawed back to tie it late, but those early misses on the glass let Cleveland build a cushion Giannis spent the whole second half erasing… only for it to slip away.
It’s like having the biggest hammer in the toolbox but forgetting the nails. The Bucks needed team rebounding to fuel transition buckets, but with Giannis logging heavy minutes (likely 38+), fatigue crept in.
Playmaking: Assists Galore, But Turnovers Tell a Different Tale
Nine dimes? Chef’s kiss. Giannis orchestrated like a maestro, finding cutters and kick-outs that kept Milwaukee in it during their third-quarter surge (they outscored Cleveland 34-24 to cut an 18-point deficit). But—and this is a big but—the Bucks coughed up 18 turnovers, leading to 24 Cleveland points. Giannis isn’t blameless here; in a game where ball-handling was thin without Porter and Anthony, he forced a few drives into traffic, resulting in live-ball turnovers that Mobley and Co. turned into fast breaks.
Remember that stretch in the second quarter where the Cavs ballooned their lead to 11 at half? A handful of those came off Milwaukee’s sloppiness, with Giannis’s aggressive style (love it, but risky) contributing. Cleveland had 10 steals—Lonzo Ball snagged a couple off high screens—and turned them into easy buckets. Assists are flashy, but in a one-possession game, those extra possessions killed the Bucks.
Giannis was probable with a toe sprain coming in, and you could see it in the fourth: He carried the load, scoring 12 of Milwaukee’s final 20, but the Bucks went ice-cold around him. With the game tied at 98, Cleveland ripped off a 7-0 run—Hunter’s step-back, Ball’s dagger three, Mitchell’s mid-ranger—and Giannis couldn’t buy a bucket in the final two minutes. He split free throws with 1:01 left to make it 112-107, but by then, the legs were gone.
Fouls, too: Giannis picked up his fourth late, limiting his aggression. And let’s be real—the Cavs were shorthanded too (no Darius Garland or Max Strus), yet their depth shone. Four guys in double figures (Mitchell, Mobley, Merrill, De’Andre Hunter at 17), while Milwaukee leaned hard on Giannis. Gary Trent Jr. added 19, but no one else cracked 15. It’s superstar isolation at its finest… and most frustrating.
Averaging 36 points, 16 boards, and 7 assists on 68% shooting to start the season? But he is not helping the team. Look at the plus minus box. In a league where balanced rosters (shoutout to Cleveland’s committee approach) beat top-heavy ones, Giannis’ way of playing masked systemic issues: injuries, turnovers, poor rebounding team-wide, and a lack of spacing that let the Cavs collapse without fear.
This loss stings because it was winnable—Bucks shot 50.6% to Cleveland’s 44.8%, but free throws (Cavs +8) and boards sealed it. Giannis was again non existent from mid range and terrible at free throws. Anyway you look at it, this is NOT a boxscore to be proud of.
So you have seen this chart before. It shows that Giannis, despite not being much good at dribbling, held the ball more than anyone. Despite his tendency for turnovers, he insists on bringing the ball down and then wasting time holding it.
Some say this is on purpose. For sure it helps boost his stats. Opponents shoot. Everyone on the Bucks team clears out for Giannis to boost his rebound stats. Then Giannis brings down the ball looking for an easy dunk. He often gets locked up and then wastes more time because he has no skills to disentangle himself. When he does pass it is often too late to team mates that are covered defensively. Still, when we link the amount of time Bucks’ players had the ball to their points, this is the chart:
Amazingly Giannis is 8th. Makes sense. Because even when he gets fouled, he converts free throws terribly. KPJ makes the most of what little time with the ball he is given.
Giannis’ tendency to dominate the ball for the Milwaukee Bucks has sparked considerable debate and criticism, especially as his usage rate continues to rise each season. In the 2024-25 season, Giannis’s usage reached league-leading levels, with nearly 35% of the Bucks’ possessions ending with his actions, and this figure spiked even higher during periods when Damian Lillard was absent.
The narrative that Giannis “hogs” the ball is backed by the data and on-court impact: while the Bucks remain extremely reliant on his talents, this overreliance has financial and competitive costs, especially in the playoffs. For Milwaukee to reach its full potential, a clear shift toward more collaborative, multi-faceted offensive schemes is urgently needed.
What have we seen so far? Well the Bucks coaching team saw how Spanoulis used Giannis in the Olympics. But they can’t copy it. Why? Because Giannis has become hooked on getting his stat padding in every game and refuses to share the ball even now. If the Bucks’ marketing team was honest, this is what the graphic would look like after a game:
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rhetoric about “winning the right way”—both in his immediate post-championship comments and in his conversation with Dwyane Wade at the All-Star Game—has often been presented as a humblebrag or a statement on competitive integrity. But peeling back the public applause, these statements reveal a deep undercurrent of individualism that, whether intentional or not, throws serious shade at the teammates and organization that propelled him to NBA stardom.
””It’s easy to go somewhere and go win a championship with somebody else… It’s easy. I could go to a super team and just do my part and win a championship. But this is the hard way to do it and this is the way to do it and we did it.”
By championing the idea that it’s “easy” to join a superteam and “do your part”—and contrasting that with his own “hard way” victory—Giannis drew a not-so-subtle line through the league: there are players who win with help, and there is Giannis, who does it solo. The implication is that his teammates were mere supporting characters, passengers in his one-man campaign, rather than vital components of a true championship team.
His words to Wade reinforced this narrative: by highlighting Wade as someone who won “the right way” in Miami, Giannis continues to prop up the myth of the self-made superstar, glossing over the critical roles played by everyone around him. It’s not just a swipe at the concept of superteams; it’s a backhanded insult to those who wore the same uniform and bled the same colors during Milwaukee’s title run.
”I’m a huge, huge fan of you bro. The day after we won the championship I posted a picture of you on my story… Because you guys… You did it in Miami. You did it the right way. That’s how I want to do it.”
What makes Giannis’s stance notably self-centered is the dismissiveness baked into the rhetoric. Khris Middleton’s clutch shooting, Jrue Holiday’s defense, and Brook Lopez’s presence in the paint—the foundation of the Bucks’ 2021 championship—are effectively relegated to footnotes in Giannis’s personal story.
By making such comments both publicly and in private conversation with icons like Wade, Giannis inadvertently puts himself at the center of the story, as if he alone triumphed against the odds. For a superstar whose brand often promotes humility and teamwork, this move is strikingly egotistical.
Let’s not forget that even the “right way” championship teams—Wade’s 2006 Heat included—relied heavily on key contributions from both stars and role players. By heralding himself and Wade as paragons of solo achievement, Giannis ignores both NBA history and the realities of how teams win titles.
His statements, when placed under a microscope, read less like inspiration and more like a subtle attempt to distance himself from those who helped raise the Larry O’Brien trophy alongside him.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s constant need to frame his title as “harder,” “more authentic,” or “without help” only underlines how much the superstar mentality has eroded the team ethic in modern basketball. Instead of lifting his teammates up in victory, his words function as a subtle takedown—a way to make sure the spotlight, even after the final buzzer, never drifts far from his own shadow.
( It is similar to his ludicrous speech about how losing is no different to winning. )
The 2025-26 NBA season has kicked off with an offensive explosion, and seven superstars—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Aaron Gordon, Luka Dončić, Anthony Edwards, Victor Wembanyama, Tyrese Maxey, and Alperen Şengün—are leading the charge. Through the first two games, these players have delivered performances that are rewriting record books and setting the tone for an electrifying season. At the same time Giannis, playing two of the worse teams in the NBA for his first two games, still can’t shoot mid range, still has loads of turnovers, still can’t screen. He simply has not developed at all.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making an early MVP case with a jaw-dropping 45.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game on 47.4% shooting through two games. In the Oklahoma City Thunder’s season opener, a 141-135 double-overtime thriller against the Indiana Pacers, SGA erupted for a career-high 55 points (15-31 FG, 23-26 FT), tying Russell Westbrook for the most 50-point games in Thunder history. He followed it up in Game 2 with 35 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, powering OKC to another victory and a 2-0 start. His two-game total of 90 points ranks fourth all-time for an opening weekend in NBA history. SGA’s silky mid-range game, relentless drives, and 88.5% free-throw shooting are making him a nightly highlight reel. The Thunder look like title contenders, and Shai’s in the driver’s seat.
Aaron Gordon, the Nuggets’ high-flying forward, has shocked the league with 50.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game on an unreal 81.0% from the field. In Denver’s opener, a 137-131 overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors, Gordon exploded for a career-best 50 points, including a franchise-record 10 three-pointers, joining Michael Jordan and Kyrie Irving as one of the few to drop 50 in an opener. Known for his dunks and defense, Gordon’s sudden emergence as a long-range assassin alongside Nikola Jokić gives Denver a terrifying new dimension. This isn’t the AG we knew—this is a superstar reborn.
Luka Dončić’s blockbuster move to the Los Angeles Lakers is paying immediate dividends. He’s averaging 43.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game, with playmaking flair that’s lighting up Tinseltown. In the opener, a 119-109 loss, Luka delivered 43 points (17-27 FG), 12 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in 41 minutes, showcasing his signature step-back threes and paint dominance. At 26, Luka’s vision and scoring touch are meshing perfectly even without LeBron James on the floor yet this season, making the Lakers’ offense a nightly spectacle. If this is Luka’s baseline in purple and gold, the league’s in trouble.
Anthony Edwards is staking his claim as the NBA’s next big thing, averaging 41.0 points per game for the Minnesota Timberwolves. In Game 1, he showcased his athleticism and shooting touch, setting the stage for a breakout season. Game 2 saw him drop 31 points (11-19 FG, 3-6 3PT) in a loss, but his efficiency and aggression were undeniable. Across both games, Edwards’ blend of highlight-reel dunks, deep threes, and improved playmaking alongside Rudy Gobert has Minnesota dreaming big. At just 24, Ant-Man’s confidence and swagger make every game must-watch TV. The Wolverine is clawing his way to superstardom.
Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ 7’4” unicorn, is averaging a monstrous 40.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 71.4% FG through two games. His opener was a masterclass, with a double-double featuring rim-rattling dunks, blocks that sent shots into the stands, and smooth perimeter shooting. His length and skill make him a defensive nightmare, while his offensive versatility has Spurs fans envisioning a dynasty under Gregg Popovich. Wembanyama isn’t just the future—he’s the present, and he’s rewriting what a big man can do.
Tyrese Maxey is torching defenses for the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 40.0 points and 6.0 assists on 54.2% shooting. In the opener, he set the tone with blazing speed and a quick release, racking up points in bunches. Game 2 he had limited minutes, but his full performances show a star who’s taken a leap, complementing Joel Embiid with drives and jumpers. Maxey’s ability to score efficiently in transition and create for others is making Philly’s offense lethal. At 24, he’s no longer a rising star—he’s arrived, and the Sixers are reaping the rewards.
Houston Rockets center Alperen Şengün is a stat-sheet stuffer, averaging 39.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists on 50.0% shooting. His opener showcased his post dominance and passing wizardry, with a near-triple-double that set the tone for Houston’s 2-0 start. Game 2 kept the momentum, with Şengün’s soft touch and Jokić-like vision creating nightmares for opponents. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate at 23 years old has the Rockets looking like playoff locks. Şengün’s Turkish hammer is pounding, and Houston’s frontcourt is a force.
These seven stars aren’t just playing well—they’re setting the NBA on fire. With 50-point outbursts, triple-doubles, and record-breaking efficiency, the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be a historic one. Shai’s scoring, Gordon’s shooting, Luka’s playmaking, Edwards’ explosiveness, Wemby’s dominance, Maxey’s speed, and Şengün’s versatility are just the beginning. As we roll into Week 2, the question isn’t who’s playing better—it’s how much higher this ceiling can go. Oh and they are driving TV ratings crazy (unlike Giannis.) These players can dribble, control the game, shoot from any distance, provide solutions for their teams in tough matchups.
the New-Age Scorers
In a season opener that’s seen a barrage of 40+ point explosions from the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Aaron Gordon, and the rest of our highlighted seven, you might wonder where Milwaukee’s Greek Freak fits in. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time MVP and perennial All-NBA beast, is off to another monster start—historically so, in fact. But against the easiest opponents possible. Through the Bucks’ 2-0 beginning (a
133-120 rout of the Wizards followed by a gritty win over the Raptors), he’s posted 30.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, becoming the first player ever to hit 60-30-10 in a season’s opening duo. Game 1: 37 points, 14 boards, 5 dimes on 16-of-26 shooting. Game 2: A double-double that sealed the historic line, with his relentless drives and rim-finishing keeping Milwaukee’s offense humming. Of course to be fair, while the other players mentioned in this post where playing the toughest team’s in the league, Giannis was playing the very worse. And he is still a ball hog as you can see on the chart.
Giannis isn’t quite “close” to the supernova pace of those seven right now: He hasn’t shown the kind of tangible, eye-popping improvement that’s catapulting the others into uncharted territory. Those guys? We’re seeing Aaron Gordon morph into a 50-point, 10-three sniper (81% FG be damned); Luka Dončić
seamlessly integrating into a new Lakers system with 43-12 lines; Victor Wembanyama expanding his alien toolkit to 40-15 dominance; and Tyrese Maxey evolving from spark plug to 40-point Ferrari. It’s leap-year growth: New skills, higher ceilings, “holy crap, he can do that now?” moments that scream evolution. Again last night, no mid range shooting.
Giannis? He’s Giannis. The 30-15-5 is elite, sure—it’s MVP-adjacent and has the Bucks looking cohesive early under Doc Rivers—but it’s a refinement of what he’s done for years. His free-throw woes persist (around 57% last season, no signs of a breakthrough yet) and there’s no radical shift in playstyle to suggest he’s adapting to the league’s scoring arms race. Last year, he averaged 30.4-11.9-6.5; this year, it’s tracking eerily similar, just with more rebounding grunt work. No added pull-up range, no sudden point-forward explosion, no “I’ve unlocked mid-range mastery” arc like SGA. It’s dominance, but it’s familiar dominance—beautiful in its brutality, but not the “amazingly improved” revelation that’s got the others rewriting highlight reels. And in the 4th quarter nobody is expecting him to become clutch. Gary Trent Jr scored the same amount of points in half the minutes. In fact why was Giannis even on the floor at the end as the Bucks were blowing the Raptors out?
Don’t get it twisted: Giannis is still a walking triple-double threat who’s dragging Milwaukee toward contention despite roster flux (hello, Myles Turner spacing). If the Bucks gel around his paint-pounding, he could average 32-12-7 by midseason and remind everyone why he’s the Freak. But in this early-season fireworks show, where the narrative is all about who’s leveled up now, Giannis feels like the grizzled vet holding the fort rather than igniting the revolution. He’s close in impact, miles ahead in hardware, but that lack of a clear “new trick” keeps him a step behind the evolution parade—for now. Keep watching; the Greek Freak doesn’t stay stagnant for long.
Despite his status as one of the NBA’s elite, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s early performances this season suggest that he has not notably expanded his skill set over the summer. Observers and analysts have noted that Giannis continues to rely on his physical dominance, downhill driving, and interior finishing, with little visible improvement in his outside shooting mechanics or consistency from mid-range, nor an increase in his playmaking sophistication in the
halfcourt offense. Defensive versatility remains his strength, but there’s no evidence that he has addressed long-standing weaknesses such as unreliable free-throw shooting or limited off-ball scoring tools. He went just 5-of-12 from the line (41.7%), continuing a long-standing issue that has plagued his efficiency in recent seasons (he’s shot below 66% from the stripe in each of the last three years). This inefficiency led to a notable moment early in the game when he was called for a 10-second violation on a free throw, delaying his attempt for over 12 seconds. And of course no mid range. 1 out of 6 against the worse team in the league is pathetic. This lack of noticeable skill growth stands in contrast to the significant development shown by other rising stars around the league who
entered the season with clearly sharpened or new elements to their games.
By the way that chart on the left is proof that nothing has changed. Giannis is still a massive ball hog.
Victor Wembanyama’s second NBA offseason took on a special intensity after recovering from a blood clot scare that ended his season early. Determined to return both stronger and more versatile, he crafted a training regimen focused on “violent” physical conditioning, global experiences, and mastering alternative movement styles.
Rather than polishing just his offensive moves, Wembanyama spent months with Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon learning low-post footwork and body control. He placed a relentless emphasis on fitness, physical strength, and recovery, dedicating far more hours to defensive drills—sometimes defending every teammate in succession, without a breather. The change in his physique has enabled him to absorb contact, contest shots more aggressively, and improve lateral movement—hallmarks of top-tier rim protectors.
Wembanyama’s improved three-point accuracy (up to 35% despite high volume), his expanded leadership voice, and the confidence gleaned from a productive, pain-free summer have transformed him into a more complete, dominant force. His Spurs teammates now see him as both a physical and vocal anchor, elevating team standards on both ends.
Tyrese Maxey’s offseason was defined by a shift in mentality: he’s no longer just a scorer, but the Sixers’ engine. With James Harden now gone, Maxey worked with the team’s coaching staff to master manipulation of defenses, run the pick-and-roll, and generate open shots for both himself and others. Summer workouts focused on increasing his passing creativity and controlling game tempo—skills crucial for a lead guard.
Maxey’s spot-up shooting has also unlocked new levels of consistency. He refined his shooting mechanics, particularly adding more arc and working on smooth releases to eliminate his tendency to shoot flat. His relentless shooting routines led to more reliable results from well beyond the arc. Leadership was a focal point too: Maxey is now seen as the vocal leader in Philadelphia, with the expectation he’ll keep teammates engaged and elevate the Sixers in clutch moments.
Training with advice from veterans and coaches, Anthony Edwards focused on handling defensive pressure, playmaking, and embracing leadership responsibilities this summer. He spent countless hours improving his ball-handling under duress, working against double-teams and simulating physical contact to prepare for postseason intensity.
One major leap is his patience as a playmaker—Edwards worked on reading defenses out of the pick-and-roll and throwing precise lobs, opening up opportunities for his teammates, especially bigs like Rudy Gobert. Another area: defensive consistency. Edwards set routines to become a steady two-way threat, intent on using his physical gifts not just for highlight plays but for reliable stops. The young Timberwolves star is primed for an elite season, both as an offensive focal point and spiritual leader.
Alperen Sengun spent the summer evolving from a classic low-post big into a modern, multidimensional center. Recognizing that high-level bigs must offer offensive versatility, Sengun dedicated extensive time to improving his shooting range—both mid-range and from deep. His preseason exhibits more confident three-point attempts and a knack for hitting turnaround jumpers.
Sengun also invested in refining his ball handling and passing, making him a greater connector in Houston’s offense. His focus on conditioning paid off defensively, allowing him longer stints on the floor and improved mobility in pick-and-roll coverage. Free-throw shooting is another breakthrough; Sengun’s improvement at the stripe should boost both his scoring and late-game reliability.
Now, he is much harder to match up with on both ends, able to draw big defenders out of the paint and help Houston’s dynamic perimeter core flourish.
These four rising stars have pushed themselves to the edge over the summer, returning as the vanguard of the NBA’s new era. Their rigorous development, sharpened skills, and growing leadership make them must-watch figures, promising to redefine both their teams and the league’s hierarchy in 2025–26. But they are not alone. While Giannis stays static, the league moves on. Maybe hold those “MVP” chants for a minute…
Standing at 6’11” with a 7’3” wingspan and with explosive athleticism, he’s been aptly nicknamed the “Greek Freak.” His ability to overpower defenders, bulldoze to the rim, and dominate in transition has made him a perennial MVP candidate. However, as Giannis continues to evolve in his career, a recurring critique persists: his game leans heavily on his physical gifts, and he has yet to fully develop the diverse skill set necessary to elevate his game to new heights and ensure long-term success. It is now year 13, what excuse does he have?
Giannis’ physical attributes are the cornerstone of his game. His ability to cover ground quickly, combined with his strength, makes him nearly unguardable in certain situations. In transition, he’s a freight train, capable of going coast-to-coast in a few strides, finishing with thunderous dunks over helpless defenders. In the half-court, his long strides allow him to attack the basket with a single step from the three-point line, often overpowering smaller defenders or outmaneuvering slower bigs. His physicality also used to shine on defense, where he could guard multiple positions, switch seamlessly, and protect the rim with his length. (Back when he cared to play defence.)
His efficiency at the rim—converting over 70% of his shots within three feet—stems from his ability to leverage his size and strength to create space and finish through contact. This physical approach has carried him to great heights, including an NBA title and Finals MVP honors, (a long time ago) but it also reveals the cracks in his game when opponents exploit his lack of versatility.
While Giannis’ physical gifts make him a matchup nightmare, his reliance on size and strength becomes a liability against certain defensive schemes, particularly in high-stakes playoff scenarios. Teams like the Toronto Raptors in 2019 and the Miami Heat in 2020 exposed this by employing strategies like the “wall” defense—packing the paint with multiple defenders to neutralize his drives. Without a reliable perimeter game or advanced playmaking skills, Giannis struggles when his path to the basket is cut off.
Giannis’ jump shooting remains a work in progress. His three-point shooting percentage has hovered around 29% for his career, with a high of 30.6% in the 2022-23 season on low volume (1.5 makes per game). Defenders often sag off him, daring him to shoot from beyond the arc or even from mid-range. This lack of shooting threat allows opponents to clog the paint, limiting his driving lanes and forcing him to take low-percentage shots. For comparison, players like Kevin Durant or Nikola Jokić, who combine size with shooting touch, keep defenses honest, creating space for themselves and their teammates.
In the post, Giannis relies heavily on power moves—drop steps, spins, or bullying his way to the rim—rather than finesse. Unlike players like Hakeem Olajuwon or even Joel Embiid, who use a variety of footwork and countermoves to score efficiently, Giannis’ post game lacks diversity. Defenders who can match his physicality or anticipate his moves can force him into turnovers or contested shots. His turnover rate (3.7 per game in 2022-23) often spikes when teams force him into crowded areas without a refined arsenal to counter.
While Giannis averages a respectable number of assists, his playmaking is more a product of his ability to draw help defense than advanced court vision. When defenses collapse on his drives, he often makes simple kick-out passes to open shooters, but he struggles to manipulate defenses with the precision of players like LeBron James or Jokić. His assist-to-turnover ratio (1.55 in 2022-23) reflects his tendency to force passes or drives into heavy traffic, particularly in playoff settings where defenses are more disciplined.
Giannis’ free-throw shooting has been a persistent weakness, with a career average of 68.5%. In high-pressure playoff games, this becomes a glaring issue, as teams intentionally foul him to exploit his inconsistency. His prolonged free-throw routine—often exceeding 10 seconds—also disrupts game flow and puts additional pressure on him mentally. Improving his free-throw percentage to a reliable 75-80% would not only boost his scoring but also deter teams from hacking him in crucial moments.
The playoffs are where Giannis’ reliance on physicality is most exposed. In the 2019 Eastern Conference Finals, the Raptors’ “wall” strategy neutralized him, holding him to 22.7 points per game on 44.3% shooting, well below his regular-season averages. Similarly, in 2020, the Heat’s zone defense and physical play limited his effectiveness, leading to a second-round exit. Even in the Bucks’ 2021 championship run, Giannis’ success was partly due to favorable matchups and injuries to opponents like the Nets’ Kyrie Irving and James Harden. In 2023, the Heat once again exploited his limitations, with Giannis shooting just 23.5% from three and struggling against their defensive schemes in a first-round upset.
These playoff performances highlight a key issue: when teams take away Giannis’ primary weapon—his ability to attack the rim—his lack of secondary skills leaves the Bucks vulnerable. Elite defenses know they can afford to give him space on the perimeter, forcing him to either shoot or make plays under pressure, areas where he’s less comfortable. And when opponents care about the game you can be sure they will stop Giannis. What then?
To reach the next level and ensure longevity as an elite player, Giannis must diversify his skill set. Here are some areas where he could focus:
At 30 years old (as of 2025), Giannis is past his prime and the physical toll of his playing style raises questions about longevity. Players who rely heavily on athleticism, like Russell Westbrook, often face challenges as their explosiveness wanes. By developing a more skill-based game, Giannis would ensure he remains a dominant force into his mid-30s, much like LeBron James, who evolved from a slasher to a versatile playmaker and shooter.
Moreover, expanding his skill set would solidify his legacy as one of the all-time greats. While he’s already a two-time MVP and champion, players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant elevated their games by adding layers of skill to their natural gifts. For Giannis to join that pantheon, he must show he can adapt when physicality alone isn’t enough.
His lack of a consistent jump shot, limited post moves, and struggles against elite playoff defenses highlight the need for a more well-rounded game. By investing in his shooting, playmaking, and overall basketball IQ, Giannis can transcend his current ceiling. For now, his physical dominance remains his greatest asset—but also his greatest crutch. The question is whether the Greek Freak can evolve into a complete player because the smarter defenses have clearly caught up with him.
As the Bucks navigate inconsistent playoff performances and mounting pressure to reclaim a title in 2025, questions linger about whether Giannis is the ideal leader to carry Milwaukee to another championship. While his on-court dominance is undeniable, leadership and team cohesion issues—both real and perceived—raise concerns about his ability to guide the Bucks to their ultimate goal.
Giannis’ leadership is defined by intensity and authenticity. He’s vocal, often seen rallying teammates during timeouts or taking accountability in post-game press conferences. His work ethic sets a high bar, and he’s known for pushing teammates to match his drive. However, this approach can be a double-edged sword. Some reports suggest that his relentless demands for effort can create tension, particularly with veterans or players less inclined to embrace his all-in mentality. For instance, former teammate Jrue Holiday, a key piece of the 2021 championship, was traded in 2023 partly due to roster upgrades but also amid whispers of differing team dynamics. Could Giannis’ intensity alienate players who don’t share his singular focus?
Leadership in the NBA isn’t just about setting an example; it’s about fostering unity. Giannis’ public comments, like his candid remarks about needing “everybody on the same page” after playoff disappointments, hint at underlying cohesion issues. While his honesty is refreshing, it can also spotlight fractures within the locker room. Compare this to leaders like LeBron James or Stephen Curry, who balance accountability with diplomacy, ensuring teammates feel empowered rather than criticized. Giannis’ raw, unfiltered style may inspire some but risks isolating others, especially in high-stakes playoff moments where emotional intelligence is as critical as talent.
Milwaukee’s roster, built around Giannis, is talented but complex. Damian Lillard’s arrival in 2023 was meant to create a championship-caliber duo, yet the Bucks have struggled to gel. In the 2024 playoffs, injuries to Giannis and Lillard exposed a lack of cohesion, with the team faltering against Indiana in the first round. While injuries aren’t Giannis’ fault, leadership is tested in adversity. Critics argue he hasn’t fully bridged the gap between his game-dominating style and a cohesive team identity. The Bucks’ offense often feels like “Giannis plus shooters,” lacking the fluidity of teams like the Boston Celtics, where Jayson Tatum orchestrates a more collective attack.
Data backs this up: in the 2024-25 season, the Bucks rank in the top 10 for offensive efficiency but lag in assist-to-turnover ratio, suggesting less ball movement than elite offenses. Giannis, while an improved passer, still prioritizes drives to the rim, which can stagnate the offense when defenses collapse on him. A true leader elevates teammates’ strengths, but Lillard’s inconsistent integration—averaging fewer points and assists than in Portland—raises questions about whether Giannis is doing enough to empower his co-star. Leadership isn’t just about scoring 30 points; it’s about making the team greater than the sum of its parts.
All too often it feels like all Giannis cares about is his personal statistics. When the going gets tough he either tries to get rid of the ball and responsibilities or he does the same two moves that everybody expects.
Playoff failures amplify scrutiny on Giannis’ leadership. Since 2021, the Bucks have exited early in three of four postseasons, including a 2023 first-round upset to Miami. Giannis’ infamous “there’s no failure in sports” press conference after that loss was polarizing—some saw it as mature perspective, others as a deflection of accountability. Leaders like Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant embraced pressure, using setbacks as fuel. Giannis’ mindset, while mentally healthy, can come off as lacking the killer instinct needed to rally a team through playoff adversity.
Moreover, his game has exploitable flaws. His limited shooting range (29% from three in 2024-25) allows defenses to clog the paint, daring him to shoot. While he’s improved his midrange and free-throw shooting, playoff opponents like Toronto (2019) and Miami (2020, 2023) have exposed this weakness. A leader adapts, but Giannis’ reluctance to diversify his offensive game can put teammates in tough spots, forcing them to compensate for predictable strategies. Compare this to Nikola Jokić, whose versatility creates opportunities for Denver’s role players, enhancing team cohesion.
Giannis is not young—31 in 2025— and doesn’t seem to be evolving as a leader. In fact he doesn’t seem to be evolving at all. His loyalty to Milwaukee, signing a max extension in 2023, shows commitment rare in today’s NBA. He’s also taken steps to improve, like refining his playmaking and engaging in film study to better read defenses. But it is not translating on to something actionable on the court.
The Bucks’ struggles aren’t solely on Giannis. Coaching changes (three head coaches since 2021) and roster turnover disrupt continuity. Injuries, particularly to Middleton and Giannis himself, have derailed playoff runs. Front-office decisions, like trading Holiday for Lillard, shift dynamics beyond Giannis’ control. Expecting him to be both superstar and perfect leader seems way beyong his abilities.
Giannis’ style—intense, unfiltered, and sometimes rigid—may not fully align with the nuanced demands of championship leadership. His inability to consistently elevate teammates, coupled with on-court limitations, raises valid concerns about team cohesion. The modern NBA demands adaptability and emotional finesse, areas where Giannis is not growing.
For Milwaukee to reclaim a championship, Giannis must evolve beyond being the team’s engine. He needs to foster a culture where stars thrive, role players feel empowered, and playoff strategies diversify. The Bucks’ front office must also provide stability, but as the face of the franchise, Giannis bears the weight of leadership. Until then, doubts about his ability to unify and elevate the Bucks will linger. And this season it is even worse. It really seems as if he likes the narrative that he alone is worth anything on the roster. That is a selfish way to pretend to be a leader.
The Milwaukee Bucks enter the 2025-26 NBA season as one of the league’s most intriguing enigmas. After a tumultuous 2024-25 campaign marked by injuries, inconsistent play, and a first-round playoff exit, the Bucks made bold moves in the offseason. They waived Damian Lillard following his Achilles injury, stretching his contract to create cap space, and signed former Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner to pair with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. This shift signals a return to “Point Giannis” as the offensive focal point, surrounded by shooters and defenders. But with roster turnover, questions about depth, and lingering trade rumors around Antetokounmpo, predictions for the Bucks vary wildly—from playoff contenders to potential lottery dwellers.
The consensus among oddsmakers and analysts pegs the Bucks’ regular-season win total at around 42.5, a slight dip from their 48 wins last year. This reflects the loss of Lillard’s scoring punch and concerns over team chemistry, but it also underscores faith in Antetokounmpo’s ability to carry the load. Betting sites like BetMGM and FanDuel list the over/under at 42.5, with juice leaning slightly toward the over at -120 in some spots. VSiN projects a similar range, emphasizing how far Antetokounmpo can drag a “barren” roster, especially since Giannis hasn’t really added any skills.
Optimistic takes suggest Milwaukee could push toward 45-50 wins if healthy. Doc’s Sports highlights the Bucks’ seven straight seasons with 45+ wins, recommending bets on over 45 at +152 or even 50+ at +410, citing their talent for beating lesser teams. CBS Sports echoes this, pointing to Antetokounmpo’s late-2024-25 surge (29.3 points, 11.4 rebounds, 7.9 assists over 21 games) and additions like Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and A.J. Green for spacing. On X, fan Nathan Marzion predicts 53-29, dismissing exact wins as long as they secure a top-6 seed.
Pessimists, however, see a floor of 37-40 wins if injuries strike or cohesion falters. Odds Shark notes declining winning percentages and a weakened depth chart, making the under tempting. DraftKings projects a baseline of 48 wins with Antetokounmpo healthy but warns of a 37-45 roster without him. X user Mr Ass advises taking the under on 42.5, predicting Antetokounmpo averages 27+ PPG but plays fewer than 65 games.
Overall, the win total hinges on health and adaptation. If the Bucks gel early, they could exceed expectations; if not, a rebuild looms.
In the Eastern Conference, predictions place the Bucks as a mid-tier team, likely fighting for seeds 5-8. ESPN ranks them in the middle of the pack, noting their top-3-point shooting percentage last season but low volume in attempts. SB Nation sees them at No. 9 in the East, behind rising squads like the Knicks, Cavaliers, and Magic. The Guardian predicts a competitive East but doesn’t spotlight Milwaukee as a top threat.
Playoff odds are favorable at -215, but conference title hopes are long at +1900. FanDuel gives them +750 to reach the East Finals and +1800 for the NBA Finals. Sporting News projects them as a second-round exit at best, citing injuries to stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum opening the East but not enough for Milwaukee to capitalize fully.
Fan predictions on X are more varied. Alex Sage sees them as a “competitive 2nd round exit,” while DRich calls a top-6 seed “very likely” with Turner’s athleticism boosting defense. Others like Nathan Grubel rank them 11th, fearing a Giannis absence derails everything. Bold outliers include Taylor predicting a 2026 ring after a 6th seed, or Snatch forecasting a Finals appearance. Some, like Zach Langley, predict they miss the playoffs entirely due to depth issues.
The East’s perceived weakness (injuries to Boston, Indiana) could help, but Milwaukee must outperform rising teams like Detroit, Orlando, and Atlanta.
Antetokounmpo dominates award talk. Multiple sources predict him as an MVP contender, needing 8+ assists and a top-4 seed. SI.com calls him a “long shot” but builds a case around his dominance. ClutchPoints offers bold predictions like Giannis leading in scoring, rebounding, and assists for Milwaukee. On X, fans like Snatch and Infinite Sports see him winning MVP outright. It is clear that this regular season the Bucks have been built to support Giannis’ stat chasing again.
Other breakout candidates include A.J. Green (X-factor per Infinite Sports) and Gary Trent Jr. (highest 3P% per Marzion). Turner is hailed as “10x better than Lopez” for defense.
The Bucks’ ceiling starts with Antetokounmpo, whose commitment quells trade speculation. Turner’s addition addresses rim protection and athleticism, allowing slower-paced, defensive games. Shooters like Trent, Prince, and Green provide spacing, potentially boosting 3-point volume. Late-2024-25 streaks (8-1 runs) show resilience. Social media users like Ryan Koller predict 55 wins with average defense from all rotations.
A weakened East (Celtics, Pacers down) offers opportunity. Hoops & Headlines predicts a better record than last season. But essentially the Bucks look like they are aiming for an impressive regular season knowing well that they are going to be smoked in the playoffs again.
Depth is a glaring issue—projected rotations include Kevin Porter Jr., Cole Anthony, and Kyle Kuzma, raising chemistry concerns. Antetokounmpo’s health is pivotal; without him, wins plummet. Trade rumors persist, with Fadeaway World speculating he stays but unrest lingers. X user Maltman predicts 40-45 wins and an early exit, fearing mediocrity.
Offense could stagnate without Lillard, and rebounding suffers without key bigs. Some like The House that Kami Built see low seeding due to missed games.
On social media, Bucks fans remain loyal. Michael Redd reflects on the 2024-25 disappointments but urges appreciating Giannis. Podcasts like Bucks University offer bold takes, including preseason reactions. Broader predictions vary, with some like Takes seeing a 7th seed and ECF run. Others, like DOM, rank them 5th in the East.
The 2025-26 Bucks are a Giannis-led wildcard. Predictions lean toward 42-45 wins, a play-in spot, and MVP buzz for the Greek Freak, but success depends on health, defense, and buy-in. If they exceed expectations, a deep playoff run isn’t impossible in a wide-open East. If not, trade winds could blow stronger. Buckle up, Milwaukee—it’s going to be a ride. Milwaukee’s floor remains high, but their ceiling depends on rapid roster cohesion and finding an answer to close games when the postseason arrives.
The following analysis dives into the top 15 players who guarded him the most during the 2024-25 season, based on possessions defended (Poss). These stats reflect Giannis’s performance when primarily defended by each player, per 75 possessions. Effective defense is indicated by lower points (PTS), assists
(AST), TS%, and FTA (suggesting fewer drives and fouls drawn), alongside higher turnovers (TOV). Kudos for the idea to these guys:
We’ll rank them by possessions faced (descending order, as in the provided table) for reliability—higher sample sizes reduce noise. For each player, I’ll cover their background, defensive style, and how the stats stack up against Giannis’s averages. Data sourced from NBA advanced tracking, highlighting individual matchups.
Here’s the full table for reference:
| # | Opponent | Poss | PTS | AST | TOV | TS% | FTA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bam Adebayo | 130 | 24.2 | 8.1 | 2.9 | 58.7% | 2.3 |
| 2 | Pascal Siakam | 130 | 27.1 | 7.5 | 4.0 | 67.6% | 2.3 |
| 3 | Wendell Carter Jr. | 113 | 21.9 | 5.3 | 4.0 | 47.8% | 5.3 |
| 4 | Al Horford | 113 | 29.3 | 4.7 | 0.0 | 46.2% | 4.0 |
| 5 | Jalen Duren | 105 | 32.2 | 11.4 | 3.6 | 57.9% | 7.9 |
| 6 | Jarrett Allen | 104 | 36.7 | 7.2 | 2.2 | 57.7% | 3.6 |
| 7 | Onyeka Okongwu | 97 | 21.0 | 8.5 | 3.1 | 47.9% | 10.9 |
| 8 | OG Anunoby | 86 | 18.2 | 4.3 | 1.7 | 40.3% | 6.1 |
| 9 | Nic Claxton | 81 | 32.6 | 7.5 | 2.8 | 56.5% | 8.4 |
| 10 | Grant Williams | 79 | 29.4 | 12.3 | 1.9 | 50.9% | 0.9 |
| 11 | Adem Bona | 72 | 29.0 | 12.4 | 1.0 | 62.8% | 12.4 |
| 12 | Jalen Johnson | 70 | 20.5 | 4.3 | 2.2 | 69.0% | 4.3 |
| 13 | Scottie Barnes | 69 | 19.5 | 5.4 | 7.6 | 68.2% | 5.4 |
| 14 | Dorian Finney-Smith | 59 | 27.9 | 6.3 | 3.8 | 75.1% | 7.6 |
| 15 | Jaren Jackson Jr. | 58 | 10.4 | 6.5 | 2.6 | 40.5% | 2.6 |
Now, let’s break down each defender.
Bam Adebayo, a 6’9″ center with guard-like agility, has earned multiple All-Defensive honors for his switchability and rim protection. He’s known for his quick feet, strong hands, and ability to body up bigger players without fouling. Against Giannis, whom he’s faced in heated playoff series, Bam’s versatility shines.
In 130 possessions—the highest in our sample—Giannis posted 24.2 PTS (well below his 31.9 baseline), a solid 58.7% TS (down from 62.5%), and just 2.3 FTA (a massive drop from 11.2). This suggests Bam excels at contesting drives without sending Giannis to the line. However, Giannis racked up 8.1 AST (above average), indicating he often passed out of double-teams or mismatches created by Bam’s help defense. TOV at 2.9 is slightly below baseline, showing Giannis maintained control. Overall, Bam’s one of the elite Giannis-stoppers, limiting efficiency while forcing playmaking.
Pascal Siakam, a 6’8″ forward with championship pedigree from Toronto, brings length, speed, and post defense to the table. His wiry strength and quickness allow him to mirror Giannis’s Euro-steps and spins, though he’s occasionally overpowered in the paint.
Tied for the most possessions at 130, Siakam held Giannis to 27.1 PTS (still under baseline) but allowed a scorching 67.6% TS—higher than Giannis’s average, pointing to efficient scoring opportunities. AST at 7.5 is slightly up, TOV at 4.0 is above average (good for defense), and FTA again low at 2.3. Siakam’s defense seems to funnel Giannis into tough shots or passes, but the high TS% suggests Giannis found ways to convert. Solid effort, but room for improvement in contesting without concessions.
Wendell Carter Jr., a 6’10” big man with solid fundamentals, anchors Orlando’s defense with drop coverage and rebounding. He’s not the quickest, but his size helps clog the lane against drivers like Giannis.
Over 113 possessions, Carter limited Giannis to 21.9 PTS (excellent, far below baseline) and a dismal 47.8% TS (way down). TOV at 4.0 is elevated, AST at 5.3 is low, but FTA at 5.3 is moderate. This profile screams effective paint protection—Giannis struggled to finish efficiently, turning the ball over more while creating fewer assists. Carter’s traditional big-man defense appears tailor-made for slowing Giannis’s interior dominance.
At 39, Al Horford remains a savvy veteran for the Celtics, using positioning and anticipation over athleticism. His experience in playoff battles against Giannis (including Boston’s 2022 series win) makes him a cerebral defender.
In 113 possessions, Giannis scored 29.3 PTS (near baseline) but on a poor 46.2% TS—Horford’s spacing and help rotations likely forced tough shots. AST dropped to 4.7 (great), FTA to 4.0 (low), but shockingly, TOV at 0.0 means Giannis was ultra-careful. Horford’s defense emphasizes team schemes over individual stops, effectively capping efficiency despite solid scoring volume.
Young and athletic at 6’10”, Jalen Duren is an emerging rim protector for the rebuilding Pistons, relying on explosiveness to challenge shots.
Across 105 possessions, Giannis exploded for 32.2 PTS (above baseline), 11.4 AST (way up), and 57.9% TS (down slightly). TOV at 3.6 is average, FTA at 7.9 moderate. Duren’s youth shows—Giannis feasted in playmaking and scoring, perhaps overwhelming Duren with speed and power. Promising tools, but not yet refined against elite talent.
Jarrett Allen, a 6’11” shot-blocker with the Cavs, uses length and timing to deter drivers. He’s a classic paint patroller.
In 104 possessions, Giannis torched him for 36.7 PTS (high), 7.2 AST, and 57.7% TS on low 3.6 FTA. TOV at 2.2 is low. Allen’s drop coverage might leave gaps for Giannis’s drives, leading to inefficient but voluminous scoring. Needs more physicality to disrupt.
Onyeka Okongwu, a 6’8″ energetic big off Atlanta’s bench, brings hustle and mobility, often switching onto wings.
Over 97 possessions, he held Giannis to 21.0 PTS (strong) and 47.9% TS (excellent), with 8.5 AST up but TOV at 3.1 average. FTA high at 10.9—Okongwu might foul too much. His aggression pays off in limiting points but invites freebies.
OG Anunoby, a 6’7″ lockdown wing for the Knicks, is renowned for his strength, length, and on-ball tenacity. He’s often tasked with star-stopping duties.
In 86 possessions, Anunoby shone: 18.2 PTS (elite low), 40.3% TS (abysmal for Giannis), 4.3 AST down, TOV 1.7 low, FTA 6.1 moderate. This screams suffocating defense—Anunoby’s physicality disrupts Giannis’s rhythm, forcing inefficiency. One of the best individual efforts here.
Nic Claxton, a 6’11” switchable big for the Nets, uses length and agility to protect the rim and perimeter.
Over 81 possessions, Giannis scored 32.6 PTS (high) on 56.5% TS (down), with 7.5 AST up, TOV 2.8 low, FTA 8.4. Claxton’s versatility helps contest, but Giannis’s power overwhelms, leading to solid but not elite containment.
Grant Williams, a 6’6″ sturdy forward now with the Hornets, is a pesky defender who uses strength and trash-talk to irritate.
In 79 possessions, Giannis hit 29.4 PTS on 50.9% TS (down), but 12.3 AST skyrocketed—Williams might force passes. TOV 1.9 low, FTA tiny 0.9. Good at avoiding fouls, but playmaking spikes hurt.
Rookie Adem Bona, a 6’10” athletic big drafted by Philly, brings raw energy and shot-blocking from his UCLA days.
Over 72 possessions, Giannis posted 29.0 PTS, 62.8% TS (near average), 12.4 AST (high), TOV just 1.0 (bad for defense), FTA 12.4 (high). Bona’s inexperience shows—Giannis exploits with passes and free throws, though scoring is contained somewhat.
Jalen Johnson, a 6’9″ athletic forward for the Hawks, has breakout potential with his leaping and versatility.
In 70 possessions, he limited Giannis to 20.5 PTS (great) on 69.0% TS (high), 4.3 AST down, TOV 2.2 low, FTA 4.3. Johnson’s speed helps, but the TS% suggests Giannis got quality looks when scoring.
Scottie Barnes, a 6’7″ do-it-all forward for Toronto, uses length and IQ to defend multiple positions.
Over 69 possessions, Barnes forced 19.5 PTS (low), but 68.2% TS (high), 5.4 AST down, and a whopping 7.6 TOV (excellent). FTA 5.4. Barnes’s disruption shines in turnovers, making him a turnover machine against Giannis despite efficiency allowed.
Dorian Finney-Smith, a 6’7″ 3-and-D wing for the Nets, brings toughness and spacing defense.
In 59 possessions (smaller sample), Giannis scored 27.9 PTS on sky-high 75.1% TS, 6.3 AST, 3.8 TOV up, FTA 7.6. Finney-Smith struggles with Giannis’s power, leading to efficient scoring—noise from low possessions, but not ideal.
Jaren Jackson Jr., a 6’10” Defensive Player of the Year candidate for Memphis, excels in blocking and switching.
Over 58 possessions (smallest sample), he dominated: 10.4 PTS (insanely low), 40.5% TS, 6.5 AST, TOV 2.6, FTA 2.6. JJJ’s length and timing erase Giannis—elite when matched up, though sample size caveats apply.
Defending Giannis requires a mix of size, speed, and scheme. Standouts like OG Anunoby, Bam Adebayo, and Jaren Jackson Jr. show how physicality and anticipation can limit him, while others like Jarrett Allen highlight vulnerabilities. Higher-possession matchups (e.g., Bam, Siakam) offer more reliable insights, but even smaller samples reveal trends. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, watch how these defenders evolve against the Greek Freak. Giannis is clearly not improving, things will only get worse for him.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a polarizing figure in the NBA, admired for his work ethic and humility but also criticized for multiple reasons both on and off the court. Dislike often stems from a mixture of his playing style, incidents involving opponents, his public persona, and perceptions of his behavior.
Many critics argue that Giannis’ dominance relies more on brute athleticism than skill, with players and fans perceiving his approach as “bulldozing,” lacking finesse, or being unrefined. This has led to accusations of being “boring” or taking the “easy route” by overpowering defenders rather than out-skilling them. Very often this is offensice fouls he all too often gets away with. It is also boring to watch as he has an extremely limited set of ways to score. Especially his dunks are very predictably the same ol same ol all the time.
There have been notable incidents—like undercutting shooters, hard fouls, or physical altercations—that have led to accusations of recklessness or even dirty play. Though some former players defend him as not intentionally dirty, the reputation persists due to repeated aggressive incidents against opponents such as Jayson Tatum and driving plays that result in injuries. His physical dominance sometimes leads to others getting hurt, which is sometimes considered dangerous if not outright unsportsmanlike by fans and media.
Opponents and commentators have called out Giannis for gestures like faking a handshake after a hard foul or reactively escalating situations in the heat of the game. Jaylen Brown, for example, labeled Giannis “a child” for such antics after receiving an elbow and being on the receiving end of a pulled-back handshake.
Despite his MVPs and championship, critics have pointed to specific playoff failures, perceived shortcomings in leadership, and offensive limitations (like shooting and free throws) as reasons to question his greatness and underachiever labels. When his teams falter, detractors highlight his inability to adapt or “raise his game,” fueling negative discussion.
There have been viral incidents of Giannis slapping or berating teammates, such as the recent episode with Greek teammate Giannoulis Larentzakis during a team huddle. While some dismiss this as passionate leadership or even cultural banter, others see it as lacking respect or unnecessarily aggressive. We get it, he is annoyed that the league knows how to shut him down when it counts.
Reports and viral clips have surfaced of locker room outbursts, confrontational meetings, and visible frustration taken out on teammates, which can be interpreted as poor leadership or lack of composure under pressure.
Episodes of walking out on reporters following tough losses or being selective about his communication have led to friction and media-driven narratives about him being inaccessible or having a chip on his shoulder. Worse still he often plays the “I was so poor” story when he has no real answer to basketball related questions.
A distinct stream of criticism from both fans and some players arises from his international roots. Some commentators and NBA insiders bluntly say part of the negativity is due to Giannis being a “foreigner,” lacking the typical “American swag,” or not coming up through U.S. basketball circuits—prompting feelings that he’s “not one of us”. This bias is echoed in NBA locker rooms and the media. Most importantly he seems totally hypocritical claiming he “feels Nigerian” the one minute, then “Greek at heart” the next and then “my home is in Milwaukee” just a second later.
On and off the court, Giannis has had confrontations with other players’ families (e.g., a notable incident with Tyrese Haliburton’s father postgame) , or the ball game indicent and opposing staff (the “ladder incident” in Philadelphia) where his reactions have been called unprofessional or unduly emotional. And he is ultra hypocritical about his kids of course.
| Type | Examples & Incidents | Themes |
|---|---|---|
| On-Court | Aggressive/dirty plays, taunting, playoff failures | Style over skill, sportsmanship, immaturity |
| Off-Court | Locker room conflicts, disrespectful gestures, slaps | Poor leadership, disrespect, bad teammate |
| Media | Walkouts, introversion, handling tough questions | Arrogance, unapproachable, negative narratives |
| Cultural | Not American, foreign roots, outsider perspective | Xenophobia, lack of U.S. basketball pedigree |
The above points encapsulate the primary criticisms and negative perceptions that have emerged around him.
Here is a summary of the discussion:
Video Details:
Transcription (automatic)
The Milwaukee Bucks over under 42 and a half they are 20 to1 to win the conference which is the eighth best odds in the East even though they have the best player in the conference in Giannis minus 215 for the playoffs they were 48 and 34 last year they turned Lopez into Miles Turner they turned Dame Lillard into Cole Anthony and they turned Conaughtan into Coffee and Harris and they’re deep and they’re a sneaky great shooting team
zack great didn’t take a lot but they were the number one three-point shooting team by percentage 38.5 last year they had Prince Green Porter Trenton Rollins all over 40% turner was at 39.6 porter’s 37 dame was actually lower than all those numbers and uh and they have shooting and they have Giannis and this number is dumbfounding to me because I don’t think they’re trading Giannis this season and I just don’t see a world where this isn’t like a 46- win team well look I mean what did they win last year 48 yeah yeah and they added Thanasses and Alex antento brainer and Russell Westbrook talk about a freakoff we This is We got the All the freaks are in Milwaukee it’s a G-rated freakoff it’s the real freakoff right here in Milwaukee Town now uh I think this team actually makes more sense than last year’s team i think that like the version of this team now I got hammered i want to like right hand up i got smashed at the outset of the playoffs because this version of Milwaukee with all those shooters going up against Indiana i thought that that Freak was going to be able to assert his will and this and the shooters on Milwaukee would keep them in and the Pacers ran them the fuck off the floor and I lost a bunch of money but I still think that the core identity of this Milwaukee team like Turner coming in makes it makes it absolutely seamless he’s an improvement over Brook Lopez i mean a huge improvement i didn’t think Brooke was good last year he was fine i I think where I would disagree with you is that like who do who do I want dribbling the basketball other than Giannis and at least I had like another guy to do that with Dame last year in a pick and roll combination that made sense kevin Porter Jr is probably a little overt taxed in the role he’s going to get same same with Ryan Rollins but as long as you I mean like and Giannis typically plays about 65ish games so like the remaining 15 to 20 are going to be big for how much if if for how much they go over this number i am also an over giannis plus shooting just makes a lot of sense to me if he gets to 657 desperate Giannis well this is my back is to the wall career-wise and I’ve thought about this all summer and I’m tired of losing Yiannis kuzma can’t be worse um I think I think Jericho Sims is like a decent backup center i agree with and again but the wild card is like is there a world where this goes really south and Giannis is not on the team after the tread deadline i agree with you i think that’s much more likely to be an offseason thing than an inseason thing so I am taking without much thought actually this is an aggressive over for me yeah I have it as I’m locking it down so am I triple lock triple lock triple lock it’s on my locks it’s Tuesday October the 14th we’re taping this podcast doc River’s birthday triple lock on how about that triple on Doc Rivers’s birthday
Doc Rivers doesn’t I mean he left Boston the moment they were even hinting on rebuilding like he doesn’t want to rebuild with anybody giannis if he’s going to be there is going to try to win every game possible miles Turner just signed this deal and is pissed at Indiana and he’s going to want to beat everybody too they also a lot of the guys in this rotation are still like chip on their shoulder nobody believes in me why don’t people think I’m good guys like Kevin Porter what the fuck has he ever done like he’s still playing like he’s proven himself trent over and over again gets discounted in free agency portoris like he’s born with that chip cole Anthony about like I was six man of the year candidate like hot minute given away i’m f I think Cole Anthony could play crunch time for them uh I like I like that Rollins i thought he was pretty good for them last year and Green is just like the one thing we’ve seen with shooters like that they get better every year that they’re in the league right they always go up and I thought he was good last year i think this team’s going to be good he’s a AJ Green’s a good player great chemistry with Giannis portoris is just rock steady offense off the bench we barely even mention him we take him for granted because he just does what he does i think that I’m stunned that this line is so low like I I I don’t think the trade is priced is that what’s happening that’s it i think people think he’s just going to ask for a deal i have them I think they’re either fourth or fifth in the East i I have them or Atlanta sure four or five i think they’re not a playing team i think they’re four that makes tons of sense i six for me for sure we’re all in agreement so I did write down if we did get to vote for I assume you’re going to get your vote back would be my guess i haven’t asked for it but if uh Oh you don’t you don’t want the vote anymore do you i mean there’s I’m torn but we’ll see how it You know if you don’t have the vote you can gamble that’s why nobody offered it to me but I’m uh if they added an LVP award for most damaging player who played at least 25 minutes on a playoff team don’t do this to Kyle kosma’s minus 250 i can’t even think who would be another like heavy prohibitive favorite he’s not that’s not him he’s not I know he became a punchline last year like he’s not a bad NBA player he’s going to bounce back this year you predicting the Koosma bounceback koozma bounceback will I hit the legacy button or not most 2020 champion Kzma legacy button the Koosma legacy well they need him because if he actually can be somewhat what he looked like three years ago before House’s Wizards contaminated him well he not contaminated he got bit by a spider he was his own you know it was a self-sabotage alongside what was happening with the team the problem with him what happened is that he checked the fuck out two years ago and you can’t flip a switch in in in this league and show up with a team that’s contending and get your head right for for contending so we’re going to see this off season with this group is his head in the right place i’m proud that we got through this whole segment without talking about Giannis’s future and where he’s going to go well we kind of did we talked around it you have a whole season to do that yeah if there was one team if we’re wrong and he gets traded during the season oh boy you could only pick one team that that trade would happen to what is the team do I have to go first i’ll go first go ahead san Antonio okay because I don’t think the Knicks I just don’t think it’s an appetizing trade for the Bucks i’m not trading Giannis for what the Knicks are offering houston good so you guys took one and two so what’s that trade shenon i don’t know it you just asked me to name a team stop there i’m not going any further shenon mine is Reed Shepard oklahoma City that’s insane okay just saying they have the picks and the players prey’s even more risk averse than Zack they have What’s What’s the risk of taking on Giannis they just won the championship we just We all pick We all picked them to lock in over 62 and a half wins what are they trading for Giannis for does Giannis hurt that Giannis diminishes their win potential if I feel comfortable predicting that he will not get traded it’s okay see that’s fine i’m reporting that right now this is a purely it’s a ridiculous exercise so I gave an answer i don’t think San Antonio is ridiculous it’s not it’s not i think that’s the team that makes a ton of sense and by the way Giannis and Wemb is it absolute like Zack putting the microphone down walking away doing like a couple laps and doing this a few times yeah you you that’s all fine but just acknowledge that that is an enormous fuck you to Milwaukee there’s nothing they’re getting back from San Antonio other than we’ll be good in 5 years guys we’ll be good again in five years fox can be in that trade i was going to say and we’ll be good again in five years castle could be in that trade we’ll be good again in the East in three years there’s a bunch of picks that could go in that trade that’s what I mean that’s what I’m saying kelly Ool could be in that trade i love Kelly Ool l Cornet on top l Cornet hanging up don’t mention L Cornette
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the “Greek Freak,” has been a dominant force in the NBA for years. Over the last three regular seasons (2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25), he’s averaged around 30.6 points per game (PPG), putting him among the league’s elite scorers. Fans and analysts often hail this as proof of his all-time greatness, with back-to-back-to-back 30+ PPG campaigns. But let’s pump the brakes. While the raw numbers look impressive, a deeper dive reveals that Giannis’ scoring is overrated. It’s padded by factors like excessive free-throw attempts, limited shooting range, and efficiency that doesn’t hold up under scrutiny—especially when compared to other top scorers or in high-stakes playoff scenarios. Don’t get me wrong: Giannis is a superstar. But treating his PPG as untouchable overlooks some glaring flaws.
One of the biggest knocks on Giannis’ scoring is how much it depends on getting to the free-throw line. Over the last three seasons, he’s averaged a whopping 11.2 free-throw attempts (FTA) per game—leading the league in that category. That’s more than players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Luka Dončić, who also drive a lot but incorporate more perimeter scoring.
Sure, drawing fouls is a skill, and Giannis’ physicality makes him a nightmare for defenders. But here’s the issue: his free-throw percentage (FT%) has been mediocre at best, hovering around 64% across these seasons (64.5% in 2022-23, 65.7% in 2023-24, and 61.7% in 2024-25). That’s well below the league average for high-volume scorers, who often shoot 80-90% from the line. As a result, he’s leaving points on the table—points that could make his scoring look even more dominant if he converted at a higher rate.
This foul-baiting style inflates his PPG without requiring the same level of skill diversity as other scorers. For context, in 2022-23 alone, nearly 40% of his points came from free throws, thanks to those 12.3 attempts per game. Critics argue this makes his scoring “predictable and biased” by officiating, as seen in games where refs swallow their whistles, and his output drops. Without this crutch, his averages might dip closer to 25-27 PPG, putting him in good-but-not-great territory.
Giannis is arguably the best finisher at the rim in NBA history, with field-goal percentages (FG%) north of 55-61% in these seasons. His euro-steps and dunks are highlight-reel stuff. But step back a few feet, and the story changes. His three-point shooting (3P%) has been abysmal: 27.5% in 2022-23, 27.4% in 2023-24, and a career-low 22.2% in 2024-25. He attempts fewer than 2 threes per game on average, meaning defenses can sag off him and clog the paint without fear.
This lack of versatility means his scoring is “overrated away from the rim,” as one analysis put it. Compare that to players like Kevin Durant or Stephen Curry, who can score from anywhere, forcing defenses to respect their entire game. Giannis’ approach works in the regular season when teams aren’t scheming as intensely, but it limits his ceiling as a “complete” scorer. In an era where spacing and shooting rule, relying almost exclusively on drives feels outdated—and overrated when propped up by sheer athleticism rather than skill.
True Shooting Percentage (TS%) is a gold-standard metric for scoring efficiency, accounting for field goals, threes, and free throws. Giannis’ TS% over the last three seasons averages about 62.6% (60.5% in 2022-23, 64.9% in 2023-24, 62.5% in 2024-25). That’s solid for a big man, but for someone averaging 30+ PPG, it’s not elite. High-volume scorers like Nikola Jokić or Joel Embiid often post TS% in the 65-70% range while matching or exceeding his points.
In comparisons of top scorers over the last three seasons, Giannis ranks outside the top tier in relative TS% (adjusted for league average). For instance, players like Curry or Durant have historically been +5-10% above league average on similar volume, while Giannis hovers around +2-4%. His low FT% drags this down—imagine if he shot 80% from the line; his TS% could jump to 68-70%, making his scoring truly unstoppable. As it stands, the metric reveals inefficiency masked by volume.
Some argue TS% “downplays” Giannis because of his high FTA, but that’s the point: efficiency includes making those shots. He’s getting more opportunities than most, yet not capitalizing fully.
The regular season is one thing, but championships are won in the playoffs—and that’s where Giannis’ scoring often falters. Over the last three years, he’s averaged 29.4 PPG in the postseason, but across only 8 games due to injuries (missing the entire 2023-24 playoffs). More telling is the efficiency drop: In the 2022-23 playoffs, his TS% plummeted to 52.5% from 60.5% in the regular season, with FT% at a dismal 45.2%.
Defenses wall up the paint in the playoffs, exposing his lack of outside shooting. As one Reddit discussion noted, people overhype his playoff scoring by focusing on raw points while ignoring “significant drops in efficiency.” Even in his strong 2024-25 playoff showing (33.0 PPG, TS% 65.1%), turnovers spiked to 4.6 per game, showing vulnerability under pressure. This inconsistency suggests his regular-season PPG is boosted by a less intense environment, making it overrated as a measure of true scoring prowess.
Finally, let’s talk durability and context. Giannis played only 63 games in 2022-23 and 67 in 2024-25—missing significant time due to injuries. While his per-game averages hold up, sustaining that over a full 82-game slate is another story. Other top scorers like LeBron James or Kevin Durant have logged more minutes while maintaining efficiency.
The Bucks’ system also plays a role. With shooters like Damian Lillard drawing attention, Giannis benefits from open lanes. But when the team struggles (as in recent playoff exits), his scoring doesn’t elevate them enough. Critics have called his overall impact “overrated,” pointing to underachievement in key moments. Even in the regular season against better opponents Giannis seems unable to make a difference.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 30+ PPG over the last three seasons is a testament to his talent and work ethic. But it’s overrated because it relies too heavily on free throws, lacks range, and doesn’t translate as efficiently in playoffs or against top defenses. If he improves his FT% and adds a reliable jumper, he could silence the doubters. Until then, let’s appreciate the numbers for what they are: great, but not the full story of elite scoring.
As the NBA landscape evolves, teams chasing a championship often look for that perfect complementary piece—a veteran who brings experience, skill, and clutch performance without demanding the spotlight. Enter Khris Middleton, the 34-year-old forward currently with the Washington Wizards. While his 2024-25 season was marred by injuries and a mid-season trade, Middleton’s track record suggests he could still be a game-changer for a contender. (Here is why he is unique in the way he fits with Giannis.)
Khris Middleton isn’t just another role player; he’s a bonafide winner. His crowning achievement came in 2021 when he helped lead the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA title in 50 years. During that postseason, Middleton averaged 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, stepping up as the reliable second option alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. His performance in the Finals against the Phoenix Suns was legendary—scoring 40 points in Game 4 and delivering clutch shots that sealed the series.
This isn’t ancient history. Even in recent years, Middleton has shown flashes of that same reliability. In the 2023 playoffs, despite injuries, he averaged 24.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists against the Indiana Pacers. For teams like the New York Knicks or Boston Celtics, who are built around star duos but need depth in high-stakes moments, Middleton’s experience could be invaluable. He’s been through the wars, knows how to handle pressure, and has a gold medal from Team USA at the 2020 Olympics to boot.
What makes Middleton so appealing is his well-rounded game. Standing at 6’7″ with a 6’11” wingspan, he’s a prototypical 3-and-D wing who can guard multiple positions. His career 38.8% three-point shooting forces defenses to respect him from deep, opening lanes for stars like Jalen Brunson or Luka Doncic on a potential new team.
Offensively, Middleton excels in mid-range pull-ups and off-ball movement, making him a low-usage scorer who doesn’t need the ball to impact games. Defensively, he’s averaged over a steal per game in multiple seasons and can switch onto guards or forwards. In an era where versatility wins titles—think of players like Jrue Holiday or Derrick White—Middleton’s ability to adapt is a huge plus.
Even at 34, his advanced metrics from healthier stretches show promise. In the 2023-24 season with the Bucks, he posted a true shooting percentage of 59.3% and a player efficiency rating (PER) of 18.4. For a contender, he could slot in as a third or fourth option, providing spacing and stability without ego clashes.
It’s fair to address the elephant in the room: Middleton’s 2024-25 season was underwhelming. After bilateral ankle surgeries in the offseason, he missed the start of the year and debuted in December. Traded to the Wizards in February as part of a deal that sent Kyle Kuzma to Milwaukee, he averaged just 10.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 22.1 minutes over 37 games. Injuries, including a knee contusion and ankle issues, limited him further, leading to multiple DNPs.
However, context matters. The Wizards are in full rebuild mode, prioritizing youth like Alex Sarr and Bub Carrington. Middleton was brought in more for veteran leadership than star production, serving as a mentor to a roster averaging under 25 years old. On a contending team with better spacing and fewer minutes demands, he could rebound—much like how veterans like Al Horford have thrived in reduced roles.
Analysts note that health is key for Middleton, as it was for the Bucks’ post-2021 struggles. If he regains form, his value skyrockets; if not, his expiring contract minimizes risk.
Several teams could benefit from Middleton’s addition via trade or buyout. The Knicks, for instance, have eyed him as a postseason boost, valuing his shooting and defense alongside Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby. In Philadelphia, he could provide wing depth for Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, easing the load on aging stars.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, predicted by some to win the 2025 title, might see him as a veteran upgrade over aging pieces. Even Western Conference teams like the Dallas Mavericks or Oklahoma City Thunder could use his experience in closing lineups. Social media buzz from X users highlights his potential “championship value” in trades, with fans noting his ability to “carry” in key moments.
His $33.3 million player option for 2025-26, which he exercised, makes him an expiring deal—attractive for salary matching in trades without long-term commitment. The Wizards, focused on tanking, might waive or trade him for assets, as suggested in recent reports.
In a league where championships are won by depth and intangibles, Khris Middleton offers a rare blend of skill, experience, and humility. While his prime may be behind him, his contributions to the Bucks’ title run prove he can elevate a good team to great. For any squad with championship aspirations—be it the Knicks, Cavs, or beyond—acquiring Middleton could be the low-risk, high-reward move that tips the scales.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, keep an eye on Middleton’s situation in Washington. If he lands on a contender, don’t be surprised if he becomes the X-factor in another deep playoff journey. The Bucks made the biggest mistake in trading him. Unless the only purpose of the team is to make Giannis look good in the regular season, because that is what it looks like right now.
As the 2025-26 NBA season kicks off, the Milwaukee Bucks find themselves at a crossroads. With a revamped roster featuring stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Myles Turner, and Kyle Kuzma, the team is poised for contention in the Eastern Conference. But one glaring omission stands out: Russell Westbrook. Just days ago, the former MVP inked a one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings, marking his seventh team in as many years. This move comes after speculation linked Westbrook to Milwaukee, with analysts like Kendrick Perkins vocally advocating for the fit. Instead, the Bucks opted to maintain the status quo, including re-signing Thanasis Antetokounmpo—Giannis’ older brother—who continues to occupy a roster spot despite minimal on-court impact.
It’s hard not to see this as a massive wasted opportunity. While family loyalty is admirable, prioritizing it over a proven veteran like Westbrook could haunt the Bucks in their quest for another championship. Westbrook, at 36, still brings a unique blend of energy, leadership, and production that could have elevated Milwaukee’s bench and overall dynamism. Let’s dive into why passing on Russ is such a regrettable decision, breaking down the “family stacking” issue and the myriad ways Westbrook could have transformed this team.
First, a quick look at the Bucks’ roster decisions. Milwaukee has undergone significant changes this offseason, adding pieces like Turner for rim protection and Kuzma for scoring versatility. However, one constant remains: Thanasis Antetokounmpo. Signed to a veteran’s minimum deal, Thanasis has been with the Bucks since 2019, primarily as a locker-room presence and occasional end-of-bench player. His stats tell the story—averaging under 3 points and 2 rebounds per game in limited minutes, he’s more symbolic than substantive.
This isn’t to diminish the Antetokounmpo brothers’ inspiring journey from Greece to NBA stardom. Giannis has repeatedly credited his family for his success, and keeping Thanasis around fosters team morale. But in a league where every roster spot counts—especially for a title contender like the Bucks—allocating one to a player with negligible impact feels like nepotism over necessity. Reports suggest the Bucks explored veteran guards but ultimately stood pat, allowing Westbrook to head west. It’s a choice that prioritizes sentiment over strategy, and in the cutthroat NBA, that can be costly.
Now, onto the heart of the matter: Russell Westbrook’s potential impact. Despite his age and a nomadic recent career (from the Nuggets last season to now the Kings), Westbrook remains a force. He’s a nine-time All-Star, the all-time triple-double leader, and a player who embodies relentless energy. Analysts and fans alike have pointed to Milwaukee as an ideal landing spot, with ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins stating outright, “I think he should be on the Milwaukee Bucks right now.” Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Westbrook could have brought:
The Bucks’ backcourt is solid with Cole Anthony and Kevin Porter Jr. handling point guard duties, but depth is a concern. Westbrook, thriving in a bench role during his time with the Clippers and Nuggets, averaged around 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists last season—efficient production in limited minutes. His ability to push the pace would have injected life into Milwaukee’s second unit, which struggled with stagnation in recent playoffs.
Imagine Westbrook orchestrating fast breaks, dishing to shooters like Gary Trent Jr. or lobs to Turner. His vision and passing—honed over 17 seasons—would alleviate pressure on Giannis, allowing the Greek Freak to focus on scoring rather than initiating offense. As one analyst noted, “Westbrook would be instant offense off the bench.”
One of Westbrook’s underrated strengths is his rebounding prowess. As a guard, he averages over 7 rebounds per game career-wise, grabbing boards that spark transition opportunities. Pairing him with Giannis—who thrives in the open court—could have created a rebounding tandem reminiscent of Russ’s OKC days with Kevin Durant. The Bucks ranked middling in rebounding last season; Westbrook’s tenacity would address that, turning defensive stops into quick scores.
Defensively, while not the lockdown player of his prime, Westbrook’s athleticism and competitiveness add edge. Perkins highlighted this, saying Westbrook could “bring an edge the Bucks are missing.” In a conference loaded with guards like Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Haliburton, that intensity matters.
Beyond stats, Westbrook’s intangibles are invaluable. He’s a former MVP with championship experience (albeit without a ring), known for his work ethic and leadership. The Bucks, coming off a 48-34 season and early playoff exit, need that veteran voice to guide younger players like Andre Jackson Jr. and Chris Livingston.
Westbrook’s fiery personality could ignite a team that sometimes lacks urgency. As Clutch Points reported, his speed and athleticism make him “an ideal fit next to Giannis.” Contrast this with Thanasis’ role—more cheerleader than contributor—and the opportunity cost becomes clear.
Critics might point to Westbrook’s shooting woes (career 30% from three) or turnover-prone style, but in a bench role, these are mitigated. The Bucks’ spacing with shooters like Trent and Kuzma would give him driving lanes, and under coach Doc Rivers—who has a history with vets—Westbrook could thrive without dominating the ball.
A one-year, minimum deal (what he signed with Sacramento) would have been low-risk, high-reward. Reddit discussions echoed this: “Bucks could use him… he’d make a great 6th man.”
The Milwaukee Bucks had a golden chance to add a Hall-of-Fame caliber player who could address key weaknesses, all while maintaining their core. Instead, by sticking with family-oriented roster spots, they’ve let Westbrook join a Western Conference rival. As the season unfolds, if the Bucks’ bench falters or their energy wanes, fans will undoubtedly wonder “what if?” It’s not too late for Milwaukee to learn from this—prioritize winning over everything else. For now, though, this feels like an enormous wasted opportunity in the Giannis era. But at the end of the day that is exactly what it was: Giannis again making the wrong choices.
Alex Antetokounmpo, the youngest member of the Antetokounmpo basketball family, is currently on a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, having spent previous seasons developing in the NBA’s G League and overseas. While his career is still in its early stages, his unique athletic profile and family name have kept him in the spotlight. However, the influence of nepotism on his NBA pathway and the Bucks’ roster construction continues to provoke discussion and criticism.
Standing at 2.03 meters (about 6’7″) with a wingspan reportedly reaching 7’2”, Alex is an athletic combo forward. His background includes experience in both European leagues (Aris Thessaloniki) and NBA G League teams, such as the Wisconsin Herd and Raptors 905. He’s known for his physical tools, competitive drive, and the potential to fill multiple forward roles on the floor.
| Season | Team | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | Wisconsin Herd | 21.2 | 5.7 | 2.9 | 0.6 | 32.0 | 19.6 | 71.4 |
| 2022-23 | Wisconsin Herd | 22.3 | 5.8 | 3.1 | 0.8 | 37.2 | 24.7 | 55.9 |
| Career | 18.6 | 5.0 | 2.6 | 0.6 | 36.7 | 24.7 | 63.3 |
Despite his potential upside, Alex currently projects as a fringe rotation player—his ceiling will depend on significant development in skill areas and decision-making. Scouts note he could become a switchable defender and secondary playmaker with 3-and-D value, but this requires improvement in perimeter shooting, ball security, and on-ball defense.
The Antetokounmpo family connection undeniably influences roster decisions. Giannis’s status as the franchise centerpiece has led the Bucks to extend opportunities to his brothers, including Thanasis and Alex, often at the expense of more competitive or developmental roster spots. High-profile commentators have called out this nepotism, suggesting it undermines meritocratic team building and can create resentment or frustration among teammates striving for opportunities on talent alone.
Alex Antetokounmpo’s NBA journey is emblematic of both the opportunities and controversies created by family ties in pro sports. He embodies raw physical talent and hustle but lacks a specialized skill set at the moment. For now, his presence on the Bucks is less a product of exceptional on-court impact than of Giannis’s influence, and ongoing nepotism risks diminishing the franchise’s talent pipeline and fairness in player development.
The real problem is Giannis. A 30 year old adult claiming he needs his brothers around to perform? Are we all serious?
There really is not that much to go on so here are all my sources for this post.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, even after over a decade in the league has certain aspects of his game stubbornly underdeveloped. These weaknesses—ranging from inconsistent shooting to poor screening and defensive lapses—can be traced back to his unconventional entry into basketball. Unlike many NBA stars who honed their skills from childhood, Giannis didn’t start playing organized basketball until he was around 13 years old, first touching a basketball at that age and beginning professional play in Greece at 16. This late start meant he missed out on years of foundational training, where muscle memory for technical skills like shooting form, screen-setting technique, and quick decision-making is typically built. Instead, Giannis has relied heavily on his extraordinary physical gifts—length, speed, and power—to compensate, but these gaps persist, affecting both his individual performance and the Milwaukee Bucks’ team dynamics.
One of the most glaring and persistent issues in Giannis’ arsenal is his shooting, particularly from the free-throw line and long range. Despite years of practice and tweaks to his routine, his career free-throw percentage hovers at a mediocre 69.3%, dipping to 61.7% in recent seasons. This isn’t just a minor flaw; it’s a strategic vulnerability that opponents exploit, especially in playoffs, by fouling him intentionally to disrupt drives and force him to the line. Insiders have pointed out that if Giannis could convert at a higher rate—given he leads the league in free-throw attempts—he’d likely have more MVP trophies, as it would naturally boost his scoring average without additional shots.
Beyond free throws, his overall shooting profile reveals deficiencies. He’s historically struggled with three-pointers and mid-range shots, posting some of the lowest field-goal percentages in the league in these areas during playoffs. While recent developments show improvement in mid-range efficiency (hitting 54.5% over stretches and ranking second league-wide in certain periods), his form lacks the fluidity of players who drilled jumpers from a young age. And of course he has no mid range when it matters in the playoffs or harder regular season games. This ties directly to his late start: Shooting is a skill rooted in repetition and mechanics developed early. Without that foundation, Giannis’ attempts often look mechanical or forced, relying on power rather than touch. In half-court sets, defenses sag off him, daring him to shoot, which clogs driving lanes and limits his effectiveness as a playmaker.
Screen-setting might seem like a basic team skill, but for Giannis, it’s a glaring weakness that hampers the Bucks’ offense. Analysts describe his screens as “ghost screens”—half-hearted efforts where he doesn’t establish a solid base, sets them too high, or angles them poorly, allowing defenders to slip through easily. With his massive 7-foot, 253-pound frame, he should be a screening powerhouse, but instead, he often prioritizes rolling to the rim for his own scoring opportunities, leading to shoddy execution. Statistically, this shows: He averages just over two screen assists per game, generating only five points, and the Bucks rank near the bottom in off-screen efficiency at 0.5 points per possession.
This flaw is particularly damaging in pick-and-roll heavy schemes with stars like Damian Lillard, where effective screens create space for pull-ups or drives. Without them, the offense stagnates, forcing isolation plays. Again, the late start explains this: Screening requires precise footwork, body positioning, and timing—fundamentals drilled in youth leagues. Giannis, who jumped straight into high-level play without that base, treats it as an afterthought, leaning on his athleticism to dominate individually rather than synergize with teammates.
Giannis’ screening IQ is obviously something that can’t magically appear. He doesn’t understand angles at the most fundamental level. He also doesn’t understand
Giannis is a defensive monster—his length and instincts earned him DPOY honors—but he isn’t flawless. Critics note he struggles with quick reactions in certain scenarios, like chasing guards around screens or maintaining off-ball awareness. He can “fall asleep” off the ball, failing to rotate promptly or box out, which leads to easy rebounds or cuts for opponents. While his help defense is elite, perimeter switching exposes slower lateral quickness against shifty guards, and his reactions in complex schemes can lag.
This isn’t about effort but ingrained habits. Starting basketball late meant less exposure to defensive drills that build anticipation and reaction speed. Players like Kawhi Leonard or Draymond Green, who started young, have that intuitive read-and-react ability honed over years. For Giannis, defense is more reactive to his physical tools than proactive fundamentals, making him vulnerable in playoff matchups where teams scheme to isolate these gaps.
Giannis’ passing is another area where limitations shine through. While he averages solid assists, he’s not a “great passer,” as opponents like Alperen Sengun have exploited by collapsing the paint and forcing him into tough decisions. In half-court sets, he struggles with quick reads, often over-dribbling (sometimes for 14 seconds) or opting for isolation shots instead of hitting open teammates. This contributes to the Bucks’ low rankings in passes and assists, turning a potential juggernaut into a predictable unit.
Tied to his late start, decision-making under pressure requires basketball IQ built from countless reps in varied scenarios. Without early immersion, Giannis defaults to his strengths—driving or pulling up—rather than orchestrating like a true point forward.
Giannis’ handle lacks creativity, making him predictable when trapped. He
doesn’t have a wide array of counter moves, often resorting to the same Euro-step or spin without variation. Bad habits compound this: fascination with inefficient isolation mid-rangers or dribble-up threes, poor off-ball movement, and inconsistent boxing out. These stem from relying on physical dominance rather than refined skills, a byproduct of skipping foundational years.
Giannis’ weaknesses aren’t from lack of effort—he’s worked tirelessly to improve. But starting at 13 meant building a skyscraper on a shallow foundation; the cracks show in technical areas requiring early muscle memory. For the Bucks to contend, Giannis must evolve beyond isolation heroics, embracing team play like better screens and quicker passes. At 30, there’s still time, but these lingering issues remind us: Even freaks of nature have human origins.
In the NBA’s endless hypothetical superteam debates, few pairings spark as much intrigue as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry. On paper, the Greek Freak’s athletic dominance combined with Curry’s unparalleled shooting seems like a recipe for dynasty-level success. But dig deeper, and the fit starts to unravel. Giannis’s playing style—dominated by ball possession, physical drives, and limited off-ball contributions—clashes with Curry’s need for fluid motion, elite screening, and quick decision-making.
Stephen Curry’s game revolves around off-ball movement and using screens to create space for his lethal three-point shooting. He’s thrived with screen-setters like Draymond Green, who not only set solid picks but also read defenses, slip when needed, and facilitate from the short roll. Giannis, however, is notoriously poor at this fundamental big-man skill, often prioritizing his own scoring over team play.
Observers have noted that Giannis tends to set screens too high or fails to establish a solid base, allowing defenders to slip around easily and disrupt the play. In pick-and-roll situations, he frequently slips the screen prematurely to hunt mismatches in the post, demanding the ball instead of creating opportunities for others. This self-focused approach was critiqued in analyses of his role with the Bucks, where even fans and analysts questioned his commitment to screening as a key offensive tool. For Curry, who relies on screens to generate 40% of his shots (per NBA tracking data), this would be disastrous. Without reliable picks, defenses could switch or hedge more aggressively on Curry, stifling his rhythm and forcing him into contested looks. Giannis’s athleticism might help in transition, but in half-court sets—where Curry does his damage—his screening lapses would turn the offense stagnant.
Social media echoes this sentiment, with recent discussions highlighting Giannis’s bad screening as a persistent flaw that hampers guard-big synergies. In a system like Golden State’s, where screening is an art form, Giannis’s habits would clash, leaving Curry isolated and underutilized.
Giannis is one of the league’s highest-usage players, often controlling the ball for extended possessions to bulldoze to the rim. This “ball hog” label isn’t new—it’s been thrown at him in high-profile feuds, like with James Harden, who implied Giannis’s style lacks passing nuance. Stats back it up: Giannis’s usage rate hovers around 33-35%, meaning he touches the ball on a massive portion of possessions, often leading to iso-heavy play. Critics argue this pads his stats but doesn’t elevate teammates as effectively as true facilitators.
Curry, conversely, excels off the ball, using gravity to warp defenses even without possession. Pairing him with Giannis would force Curry into a spot-up role more often, diminishing his playmaking (he averaged 6.5 assists in 2024-25). Recent Bucks games highlighted this issue: when Giannis dominated the ball, teammates like Damian Lillard saw reduced touches, leading to frustration and inefficiency. On X (formerly Twitter), users frequently call out Giannis’s hogging, with posts noting how it led to losses despite his gaudy lines. In a Curry-led offense, this possessiveness would create tension, as Steph’s motion-based system demands quick ball movement—not prolonged dribble drives.
Curry is synonymous with clutch performance, hitting game-winners and thriving under pressure with a career 43% three-point shooting in clutch situations. Giannis? His clutch stats tell a mixed story at best, often marred by poor free-throw shooting and decision-making. In 2024-25, he shot just 68.8% from the line in clutch minutes, missing key opportunities. Overall clutch efficiency ranks him mid-tier among stars, with a +15.1 net rating but inconsistent scoring (3.6 PPG in clutch games).
Critics point to playoff meltdowns, like the 2023 first-round exit where his free-throw woes (notably in clutch spots) contributed to the Bucks’ collapse. On X, discussions label him “not clutch,” citing games where he deferred or bricked in crunch time. For a duo with Curry, who’d draw double-teams late, Giannis’s unreliability—especially from the stripe—could cost championships. Defenses would foul him intentionally, turning potential wins into free-throw lotteries.
Most damning is Giannis’s perceived low basketball IQ, slow processing, and struggles with complex plays—traits that would torpedo a partnership with Curry’s cerebral, read-and-react style. Gilbert Arenas famously questioned Giannis’s smarts, asking if he’s “smarter than LeBron James or Stephen Curry” and arguing his success stems from athleticism, not intellect. Videos and analyses highlight players doubting his IQ, noting he relies on raw power over nuanced reads.
Reddit threads debate this, with many concluding he’s not “high IQ” despite stats. His reaction time in half-court offenses is slower, often leading to forced drives rather than exploiting mismatches creatively. Curry’s Warriors run intricate sets with split actions, back screens, and rapid decisions—Giannis’s inability to “think or react fast” would bog it down. Even his passing, while improved (7.3 APG in 2024), is critiqued as basic, not elite like Jokic’s or LeBron’s. In advanced plays, he’d struggle to adapt, turning a dynamic offense into a predictable one.
Hypothetical analyses of a Giannis-Curry pairing acknowledge the gravitational pull but warn of stylistic clashes. While some see it as “unfair” dominance, others note Giannis’s limitations would hinder Curry’s freedom.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a force of nature, but his screening deficiencies, ball-hogging, clutch inconsistencies, and limited IQ make him a poor fit for Stephen Curry’s ecosystem. Curry needs space creators and quick thinkers; Giannis provides brute force but at the cost of flow. In a league where chemistry trumps talent alone, this duo would frustrate more than dominate. Better to keep them apart—let Giannis bulldoze in Milwaukee, and Curry dance in the Bay. Real skills matter and Giannis simply hasn’t developed them at all. If anything he is getting worse (at ft% and 3pt% for sure.) As usual, Bucks (and Golden State) fans are talking as if the NBA is a video game.
In the ever-evolving drama of the NBA, few stories capture the tension between player power and organizational loyalty quite like the recent saga involving Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. On October 8, 2025, the two-time MVP made headlines with comments that hinted at a potential exit from Milwaukee if the team doesn’t contend for a championship this season. “Right now, my focus is on the Bucks,” Giannis said, “but it’s human nature to change your mind if things don’t go as planned.” These words, amid swirling trade rumors linking him to the New York Knicks—especially after their blockbuster acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns—sparked immediate backlash.
Enter NBA legend Charles Barkley, who didn’t mince words during an appearance on ESPN. Barkley lambasted Giannis for what he perceives as entitlement, stating, “These guys, they feel like they’re entitled to play for the championship every year. … Everybody wants to win a championship, but the Bucks have done everything they possibly could.” Barkley’s critique resonates deeply, not just because of his Hall of Fame credentials, but because it highlights a stark reality: the Bucks have bent over backward to build a contender around Giannis, often at great cost to their future. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why Barkley is spot-on and why Giannis’s stance comes across as ungrateful, given the franchise’s extraordinary efforts.
Let’s rewind to 2013. The Milwaukee Bucks, a small-market team often overshadowed in the NBA landscape, took a gamble on a lanky, relatively unknown teenager from Greece in the NBA Draft. Selected 15th overall, Giannis Antetokounmpo was far from a sure thing—raw talent with immense potential but little polish. The Bucks didn’t just draft him; they invested years in his development. Through dedicated coaching, strength training, and on-court opportunities, they transformed him from a skinny prospect into the “Greek Freak,” a dominant force who would go on to win two MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year honor, and lead the team to glory.
This patience and belief paid off spectacularly in 2021 when Giannis delivered a championship to Milwaukee, ending a 50-year drought. His 50-point masterpiece in the Finals closeout game earned him MVP honors, cementing his legacy. But the Bucks’ commitment didn’t start or end there—it was a foundational bet on his future that no other team might have made.
Barkley’s point about the Bucks doing “everything they possibly could” isn’t hyperbole; it’s backed by a series of bold, franchise-altering decisions. In 2020, sensing the need for a defensive anchor to complement Giannis, Milwaukee traded Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, and multiple first-round picks to acquire Jrue Holiday. This move was pivotal, directly contributing to the 2021 title run.
Post-championship, the Bucks rewarded Giannis with a five-year, $228 million supermax extension in December 2020, securing his services and signaling their long-term vision. When the team hit a rough patch, they didn’t hesitate to shake things up. In May 2023, they fired championship-winning coach Mike Budenholzer after a first-round playoff exit to the Miami Heat. They hired Adrian Griffin in June 2023, only to dismiss him mid-season despite a 30-13 record, replacing him with Doc Rivers—moves that aligned with Giannis’s preferences for change.
The Bucks went even further in September 2023, trading Jrue Holiday, Grayson Allen, and more picks to Portland for Damian Lillard, pairing Giannis with another superstar guard in a desperate bid to reignite contention. This trade mortgaged their draft capital through 2031, leaving the team with limited flexibility. As Barkley noted, “The Bucks have done everything they can.”
Entering the 2025-26 season, Milwaukee continued their all-in approach. They signed Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal in July 2025, adding rim protection to bolster the frontcourt alongside Giannis. Free-agent additions like Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright deepened the roster, pushing the payroll over $170 million and deep into the luxury tax’s second apron. These aren’t half-measures; they’re sacrifices that have capped the team’s future options, all to maximize Giannis’s prime.
Even on a personal level, the Bucks have shown loyalty by keeping Giannis’s brother, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, on the roster since 2019. Despite his limited on-court impact, this provides family stability—a rare perk in the cutthroat NBA.
Giannis’s hints at departure ignore a crucial factor: injuries, not front-office failures, have been the primary roadblock. In the 2024 playoffs, his absence due to injury contributed to a first-round loss to the Indiana Pacers. The Bucks’ core has been plagued by health issues, but the organization has responded by rebuilding the roster aggressively. As Barkley emphasized, “I want someone to love me as much as the Bucks love Giannis.”
In contrast to Barkley’s era, where stars like him endured years with underperforming teams without demanding trades (though Barkley himself requested one from the 76ers in the early ’90s for similar reasons), modern players expect perennial contention. But Milwaukee has delivered far beyond what’s typical for a small-market franchise. Ownership even changed hands in 2014 to fund arena upgrades and retain Giannis, demonstrating a commitment to infrastructure and stability.
Giannis’s comments smack of entitlement because they overlook his origins. Without the Bucks’ faith and resources, he might not have evolved into the superstar he is today. He publicly praised the organization’s efforts in 2021, vowing loyalty, but his recent waffling undermines that narrative. Expecting annual titles ignores the NBA’s increasing parity, with powerhouse Eastern Conference rivals like the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
Barkley’s frustration is echoed across the league and media. As one analyst put it, “The Bucks have given Giannis everything he wanted—they traded a ton for Jrue, for Dame, and now put themselves in cap hell.” Giannis’s stance feels ungrateful, especially when compared to players who stuck it out in tougher situations. The Bucks aren’t a dysfunctional franchise; they’re a model of player-centric building, and Barkley’s call-out serves as a reminder that loyalty should be a two-way street.
Charles Barkley isn’t just stirring the pot—he’s highlighting a fundamental truth about the NBA’s player-empowerment era. The Milwaukee Bucks have exhausted every avenue to build around Giannis Antetokounmpo, from draft investments and blockbuster trades to coaching overhauls and massive contracts. In return, veiled threats of departure come across as entitled and ungrateful, especially from a player who owes much of his success to the franchise’s unwavering support.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Giannis has a chance to repay that loyalty with performance and commitment. But if Barkley’s words ring true, perhaps it’s time for the Greek Freak to reflect on how far the Bucks have carried him—and how much further they could go together. In a league where rings are the ultimate goal, true greatness also involves appreciating the journey and the team that made it possible.
In the high-stakes world of the NBA, superstar players like Giannis Antetokounmpo hold immense leverage, especially when their contracts include player options. As the 2025-26 season tips off, whispers about the Greek Freak’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks are growing louder amid trade rumors and questions about the team’s championship viability. While Giannis can’t walk away immediately after this season, his contract structure sets him up for unrestricted free agency as early as the summer of 2027 – at the end of the 2026-27 season. Once he declines his player option, the Bucks will have zero recourse to keep him. Let’s break down the rules, his contract details, and why Milwaukee is essentially at his mercy.
Giannis has been a Buck since 2013, rising from a raw rookie to a two-time MVP and 2021 NBA champion. His loyalty has been rewarded with massive extensions, but the latest one – signed in October 2023 – gives him an exit ramp that’s hard for the front office to block.
The current deal is a three-year, $175 million maximum veteran extension that kicked in for the 2025-26 season. Here’s the breakdown:
The first two years are fully guaranteed, meaning Giannis is locked in through the end of the 2026-27 season. But the third year? That’s where his power shines. The player option for 2027-28 allows Giannis (or his representatives) to decide by June 29, 2027, whether to exercise it and stay with Milwaukee for one more year at that salary. If he declines – opting out – he hits unrestricted free agency (UFA) in the summer of 2027, free to sign with any team of his choosing.
This isn’t some obscure loophole; it’s a standard feature in NBA supermax contracts for stars like Giannis, who qualify under the Designated Veteran Player rules. These extensions allow teams to pay above the salary cap but often include player-friendly terms like options to maintain flexibility in a league where careers are short and contention windows narrow.
Prior to this extension, Giannis was already under a five-year, $228 million deal from 2020 that carried him through 2025-26, but the new extension superseded the final year for cap purposes. The Bucks front office, led by GM Jon Horst, structured it this way to keep their star happy while navigating the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) restrictions, including the over-36 rule (Giannis turns 33 in 2027, so no over-38 issues yet). But by building in the player option, they’ve handed Giannis the keys to his own destiny.
To understand why the Bucks can’t stop Giannis from leaving, we need to dive into the NBA’s free agency rules under the current CBA.
A player option is a contractual clause that gives the player – not the team – the unilateral right to decide whether to fulfill the final year(s) of the deal. If exercised, Giannis would play out 2027-28 in Milwaukee. But if he opts out, that year vanishes, and he becomes an unrestricted free agent. As a UFA, any NBA team can negotiate and sign him without restrictions – no qualifying offers, no right of first refusal, nothing. The Bucks’ Bird Rights (which allow over-the-cap re-signings) wouldn’t apply if he opts out and signs elsewhere; they’d only help if he stays or returns later.
Contrast this with restricted free agency, where teams can match offers. Player options like Giannis’s bypass that entirely. The CBA explicitly prohibits contracts from including clauses that limit a player’s free agency after the option period, ensuring stars can chase rings or bigger paydays elsewhere.
Moreover, Giannis doesn’t have a no-trade clause in this extension, meaning the Bucks could theoretically trade him before the opt-out deadline without his consent. But if Giannis wants to play out his guaranteed years and then bolt via free agency, Milwaukee has no leverage. They can’t force him to exercise the option, extend early (he’s eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension starting October 2026, but only if he stays), or block his departure.
In practice, this creates massive trade leverage for Giannis even before 2027. After the 2025-26 season, with just one guaranteed year left, his value skyrockets for contending teams. The Bucks would face a “trade now or lose for nothing” dilemma – a scenario that’s played out with stars like Kevin Durant and James Harden. Recent reports indicate Giannis is already exploring options, with interest from teams like the Knicks, and the Bucks are bracing for potential mid-season drama if results falter.
Giannis has repeatedly affirmed his commitment to Milwaukee, saying he’s “locked in” but leaving the door open for change if the team doesn’t contend. The Bucks have surrounded him with talent like Damian Lillard and recent additions, but back-to-back early playoff exits have fueled doubts. At 30 years old (turning 31 in December 2025), Giannis knows his prime won’t last forever. Opting out in 2027 could net him a new supermax elsewhere – potentially over $300 million – with a contender.
For the Bucks, the nightmare is losing their franchise cornerstone for nothing. They can’t poison-pill his contract or use opt-out protections because the CBA doesn’t allow it. Their only plays are winning big this and next season to convince him to extend early or trading him on his terms to recoup assets.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s player option embodies the shift toward player empowerment in the NBA. By the end of the 2026-27 season, if he chooses to walk, the Bucks are spectators – unable to match offers, extend forcibly, or retain rights. It’s a stark reminder that even loyal stars like the Greek Freak prioritize championships over sentiment. As trade rumors swirl into the 2025-26 season, Milwaukee must deliver, or risk watching their MVP depart on his own terms.
If Giannis Antetokounmpo declines his player option, he would be able to leave the Milwaukee Bucks and become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027, immediately after the conclusion of the 2026-27 NBA season. His current contract guarantees him two more years, covering the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons, with a player option for the 2027-28 season—which he can choose whether or not to accept. If he opts out, the earliest possible departure is July 2027. What is most likely? At the end of this (failed again) Bucks’ season, they try to trade him for as much talent and draft capital they can. Giannis has no choice. But at the end of that second season he returns to Greece.
While Giannis Antetokounmpo has indeed struggled with consistent playoff success, with six first-round exits in his ten playoff appearances (60% first-round exit rate) , a few more top 100 NBA players of all time have actually had worse or comparable playoff failures relative to their talent and expectations.
Karl Malone holds the unfortunate record for most playoff games (193) without winning a championship. Despite being a two-time MVP and reaching two Finals, he suffered multiple devastating losses:
Barkley had a worse playoff series record than Giannis, going 12-13 in playoff series throughout his career :
Nash never reached an NBA Finals despite his elite regular season success :cbc+1
Miller’s playoff record was remarkably similar to current Giannis :
Despite being the centerpiece of multiple strong Knicks teams, Ewing never won a championship :
Paul has had numerous devastating playoff collapses :
Despite regular season excellence, Harden has underperformed in crucial playoff moments :
Giannis’s recent struggles three consecutive first-round exits from 2023-2025 are concerning. But while Giannis’s six first-round exits in ten appearances represent genuine playoff struggles, at least 5-7 other top 100 players had worse or comparable playoff failures relative to their talent and expectations. Players like Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, Reggie Miller, and Patrick Ewing all had more devastating playoff careers when accounting for their lack of championships and multiple crushing defeats.
Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t inherently “bad” in the playoffs—he still puts up impressive individual numbers—but he faces specific, exploitable weaknesses that championship-level teams have learned to target systematically. His playoff struggles stem from a combination of technical limitations, strategic vulnerabilities, and psychological factors that become magnified under postseason pressure.
Giannis’s most glaring weakness is his free throw shooting, which deteriorates significantly in the playoffs :
His excessively long free throw routine (15-20 seconds per shot) creates mental pressure and allows fans to affect his concentration. The routine lacks fluidity and doesn’t mirror his actual shooting motion, making it essentially “not a basketball act”.
Since 2019, teams have deployed a devastating defensive scheme called “The Wall” that has consistently neutralized his dominance :
How it works:
Historical success against Giannis:
Teams actively encourage Giannis to shoot three-pointers, knowing it plays away from his strengths :
Giannis struggles with decision-making when facing intense playoff pressure :
Unlike other superstars, Giannis requires exceptional supporting cast performance to succeed :
An underrated weakness that affects team offense :
Playoff teams have extensive time to study and prepare specific schemes :
Playoff defenses are more disciplined and committed to executing complex schemes :
High-stakes situations expose his technical limitations :
Giannis’s 2021 championship run succeeded because of unique circumstances :
Giannis isn’t “bad” in the playoffs—he’s a victim of solvable basketball problems that he hasn’t adequately addressed. His combination of free throw struggles, three-point shooting deficiencies, and vulnerability to sophisticated defensive schemes creates a blueprint that disciplined playoff teams can exploit. Unlike transcendent playoff performers who elevate their games under pressure, Giannis’s technical limitations become more pronounced when facing elite, prepared defenses with months to gameplan specifically for his weaknesses.
In the whirlwind world of the NBA, where superstars chase championships and global endorsements, few stories tug at the heartstrings quite like Giannis Antetokounmpo’s. The man they call the Greek Freak—born in Athens to Nigerian immigrant parents, risen from street-hustling kid to two-time MVP and NBA champion—has always worn his roots on his sleeve. But today, a new chapter unfolds that’s less about highlight reels and more about family foundations: Giannis’ wife, Mariah Riddlesprigger, and their four young children have officially settled permanently in Athens, Greece. Their sons have even started kindergarten at the prestigious Athens College, marking a bold pivot toward the homeland that shaped him.
This isn’t just a seasonal relocation; it’s a seismic shift for a family that’s called Milwaukee home since Giannis was drafted in 2013. As the Bucks gear up for another title run, Giannis faces his first NBA season separated from his loved ones. What does this mean for the 30-year-old phenom? Could it fuel his fire on the court, or add an emotional weight to his already Herculean load? Or is he preparing for a return to Greece soon?
## A Family Forged in Adversity: Giannis’ Journey from Sepolia Streets to NBA Stardom
To understand the significance of this move, we need to rewind to Giannis’ origins. Born Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo on December 6, 1994, in Athens’ gritty Sepolia neighborhood, he grew up stateless for years—his parents, Charles and Veronica, had fled Nigeria in the early 1990s seeking better opportunities, only to face poverty and discrimination in Greece. The family scraped by selling watches and handbags on the streets, with young Giannis and his brothers (Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex) pitching in to keep food on the table.
Basketball became their escape. Scouted by local coach Spiros Velliniatis at age 13, Giannis’ raw athleticism— that impossible blend of 6’11” frame, speed, and power—propelled him from Filathlitikos’ youth teams to the NBA in a meteoric rise. By 2013, he was in Milwaukee, dragging his family across the Atlantic for a shot at the American Dream. Today, three of the four brothers play professionally in the NBA, and their AntetokounBros Academy in Athens offers free training to underprivileged kids, echoing the support they once received.
Enter Mariah Riddlesprigger, a philanthropist and former college volleyball star whom Giannis met in Milwaukee. The couple, who married in a lavish summer 2024 ceremony after welcoming three children, have built a life centered on quiet joys amid the spotlight. Their kids—Liam Charles (born February 10, 2020), Maverick Shai (August 18, 2021), Eva Brooke (September 14, 2023), and the newest addition, Aria Capri (born around June 2025)—represent the next generation of Antetokounmpos. Rarely seen in public, they’ve been fixtures at Bucks games and family milestones, like the 2022 premiere of Disney+’s *Rise*, the film chronicling their immigrant saga.
Giannis has always been vocal about fatherhood’s pull. In interviews, he’s said he’d retire on the spot if Liam asked for more playtime, underscoring how family anchors his relentless drive. Now, with the kids’ early years in flux, the pull of Greece feels inevitable.
## The Move: From Milwaukee Winters to Athenian Sunsets
Whispers of a Greek return have swirled for years—Giannis bought a sprawling, futuristic apartment complex in the upscale Paleo Psychiko suburb of Athens back in 2023 for an estimated €10 million ($11 million), complete with units for his mother and brothers. But this summer, it became reality. As of September 2025, Mariah and the four children have made the transatlantic leap permanent, trading Milwaukee’s chilly, humid climate (where even July highs rarely top 26°C/79°F) for Athens’ Mediterranean warmth.
The kids’ integration is already underway. Five-year-old Liam and four-year-old Maverick kicked off the school year at Athens College, one of Greece’s most elite institutions, known for its rigorous bilingual curriculum and alumni like shipping magnates and politicians. It’s no accident; Giannis, ever the planner, chose it to give his sons “only the best” from their formative years. Two-year-old Eva and four-month-old Aria are settling into the family rhythm, with the household buzzing in a quiet neighborhood where passersby remain blissfully unaware of their famous residents.
This isn’t a trial run. Sources close to the family confirm it’s a multi-year commitment, with Giannis commuting between continents during the offseason and, presumably, holidays. The Bucks star returned to Milwaukee practice just days ago, but the separation marks uncharted territory for a man who’s thrived on stability.
## Why Now? Roots, Climate, and a Vision for the Future
So, what sparked this bold step? It’s a cocktail of personal, cultural, and practical factors. Foremost: Mariah’s preference. When Giannis polled her on Milwaukee versus Athens, she chose the Greek capital without hesitation, citing the vibrant community, milder weather, and cultural richness. “Greece suits us better,” insiders note, a sentiment echoed in Giannis’ own long-held dreams of returning home.
Giannis has been candid about his love for Athens. In a July 2025 interview, he declared, “I’m definitely thinking of coming to Greece permanently when I retire… Athens is my home.” His tears after captaining Greece to a bronze at EuroBasket 2025—the country’s first medal since 2009—spoke volumes about his emotional tether. The move aligns with his vision: exposing his kids to their heritage, fluent Greek lessons, and summers on sun-drenched islands, all while nurturing the AntetokounBros legacy through local philanthropy.
Practically, it’s savvy. With business ventures blooming in Greece (from real estate to the family’s academy), and rumors of a post-NBA stint with Filathlitikos—the club that launched him—rooting the family there streamlines logistics. Unlike LeBron James, whom he admires, Giannis has hinted he’s not chasing a 40-year-old career; he wants to peak now and pivot sooner, perhaps ending his playing days in the Hellenic League.
## The Ripple Effects: Emotional Turbulence, On-Court Fuel, and Long-Term Legacy
No sugarcoating it: this separation could test Giannis like never before. For the first time, he’ll lace up for Bucks games without his family’s courtside cheers or post-practice cuddles. “It will not be easy,” those in his circle admit, especially with a newborn at home. The 8-hour time difference and grueling travel—private jets notwithstanding—could amplify the isolation of NBA life, potentially stirring anxiety or homesickness. We’ve seen stars like Kevin Durant grapple with similar family strains; for Giannis, whose identity is so intertwined with family, it might manifest as restless energy or, worse, distraction.
Yet, there’s profound upside. Psychologically, knowing his kids are immersed in their cultural bedrock could lighten his load, freeing mental bandwidth for the court. Imagine the motivation: every dunk a dedication to providing that “best” education, every assist a step toward a post-retirement life unmarred by regret. History shows fatherhood sharpens focus—post-Liam’s birth, Giannis averaged 29.5 points in the 2020-21 championship run. This move might supercharge that, turning transatlantic longing into unbreakable resolve.
On the family front, it’s a win for stability. Milwaukee’s transient NBA scene pales against Athens’ extended-family vibe, where Veronica can dote on grandkids and the brothers collaborate on ventures. For the children, it’s a bilingual, multicultural upbringing—Greek summers, American holidays—that mirrors Giannis’ own hybrid identity, fostering resilience they’ll need in a global world.
Career-wise, it signals maturity. At 30, with a supermax extension through 2028, Giannis is eyeing legacy beyond rings. Settling his family in Greece positions him as a bridge-builder: the immigrant kid who returns to uplift, not just extract. It could extend his prime by reducing burnout, and if whispers of an Athens NBA expansion hold water, who knows? The Greek Freak might one day headline a Euro league.
Of course, risks linger. If the Bucks falter or injuries mount (recall his 2023 knee scare), the pull of home might accelerate retirement talks. And logistically? Balancing Daddy duty with 82 games demands ninja-level scheduling.
## Closing the Circle: A Freakish Return to Roots
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s family move to Athens isn’t an ending—it’s a homecoming that closes the circle on a life story scripted in struggle and stardom. From Sepolia’s shadows to Milwaukee’s spotlight, he’s always chased wholeness: for himself, his brothers, his parents, and now his children. This decision, though laced with sacrifice, underscores his core value—family above all.
As the season tips off, watch for that extra gear in Giannis’ game. It might just be the fuel to chase another ring, knowing his little freaks are thriving where it all began. In a league of mercenaries, the Greek Freak remains gloriously grounded. And in doing so, he reminds us: true greatness isn’t measured in trophies alone, but in the homes we build across oceans.
Personally I think it will be a convenient excuse. When he fails again this year to achieve anything in the post season he will use his family as an excuse to justify playing in Europe with a Greek team. And all he has said over the years about loyalty to the Bucks and the place that has been home all these years will go out the window…
*Sources: Proto Thema English, New Greek TV, People Magazine, Greek Reporter, Hellenic Daily News.*
Giannis Antetokounmpo ranks among the worst in NBA history or current seasons in several key areas, despite his superstar status and multiple accolades. Here are the most significant statistical weaknesses in his game:
Free Throw Shooting Crisis
Giannis’s free throw shooting represents one of the most glaring weaknesses for any superstar player. His career average of 71.7% is concerning for someone who gets to the line frequently, but his 2020-21 season was historically poor at just 57.5%. During one game against Dallas, he went an abysmal 1-for-10 from the free throw line, joining an exclusive group of only four players in NBA history to shoot below 10% on 10+ attempts in a single game.
Three-Point Shooting Regression
Perhaps most troubling is Giannis’ unprecedented four-year consecutive decline in three-point percentage from 2019-2023. In 2018, he posted the worst three-point percentage (10.7% on 56 attempts) among all NBA players with at least 50 attempts, finishing dead last in the league. His current 2024-25 season shows minimal improvement at just 19% on 0.8 attempts per game. He is closer to the worse NBA season ever in this category!
Mid-Range Shooting Disaster
In the paint outside the restricted area, Giannis shot an abysmal 27.9% on 197 attempts during one analyzed season, ranking 62nd out of 62 qualified players – literally the worst among all players with similar volume. This represents a massive weakness in his offensive arsenal.
Turnover Problems
Giannis consistently ranks among the league leaders in turnovers, averaging 3.7 per game during his peak seasons. This is exceptionally high for a non-point guard and reflects poor ball security relative to his usage rate. His turnover rate is particularly concerning on drives, where he frequently loses control of the basketball.
Ball Security Issues
Despite being a primary ball handler, Giannis exhibits poor ball security when attacking the rim. His high turnover rate on drives stems from inadequate ball handling fundamentals and decision-making under pressure.
Free Throw Routine Violations
Giannis has been called for multiple 10-second violations during playoff games and regularly exceeds the time limit. His free throw routine is the longest in the NBA, with opponents and crowds regularly counting to 12+ seconds before he releases the ball. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Reports have documented numerous instances where he should have been called for violations but wasn’t.
Travel Violations
Video analysis reveals that Giannis commits multiple traveling violations per game that go uncalled due to superstar treatment. Official NBA referee training videos have used Giannis as an example of traveling violations, yet these infractions are rarely penalized during games.
Offensive Fouls and Charges
Giannis frequently commits offensive fouls and charges that go uncalled, benefiting from inconsistent officiating. He’s among the leaders in uncalled charging fouls, often bulldozing through defenders without consequence.
Late-Game Efficiency
Despite his overall excellence, Giannis has shown declining efficiency in clutch situations. The Milwaukee Bucks have had some of the worst clutch-time offensive ratings in recent seasons, partly due to Giannis’s struggles in crucial moments.
Fourth Quarter Performance
Analysis shows that Giannis’s fourth-quarter efficiency often drops compared to earlier quarters, with his decision-making and shot selection becoming more questionable in pressure situations.
Lack of Skill Development
Most concerning is Giannis’s minimal improvement in key areas despite years of practice. His three-point shooting improvement rate is among the worst for any superstar player, showing little meaningful progress over multiple seasons despite significant investment in shooting coaches and practice time.
Unprecedented Regression
For a player of Giannis’s caliber and MVP status, having four consecutive years of three-point percentage decline is virtually unprecedented in NBA history. Most elite players show improvement or at least maintain their shooting percentages over time.
The comprehensive data reveals that while Giannis excels in some things in easier games and in the regular season, he ranks among the NBA’s worst performers in several crucial skills. These weaknesses become more pronounced in playoff situations where teams can exploit his limitations through strategic fouling and defensive schemes that force him into uncomfortable shooting situations.
With Russell Westbrook still sitting on the free-agent market after declining his player option with the Denver Nuggets, ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins floated the idea that Milwaukee should swoop in and sign the 37-year-old veteran. On paper, it sounds intriguing: a win-now team desperate for backcourt stability after cutting ties with Damian Lillard, pairing Westbrook’s explosive energy with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance. But let’s pump the brakes. This isn’t just a questionable fit—it’s a recipe for regression that could derail the Bucks’ championship aspirations. It’s uglier than a mid-range brick in overtime.
Westbrook’s résumé is legendary—NBA MVP, nine-time All-Star, all-time leader in triple-doubles. But at 37, his game has devolved into a highlight-reel sideshow with diminishing returns. In his final season with Denver (2024-25), he posted 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games—solid bench numbers, sure. He still brings that manic energy, pushing the pace and crashing the glass like it’s 2017.
The cracks, however, are canyon-sized. His field-goal percentage hovered around 44.9%, and his three-point shooting? A woeful 31.4% on low volume (just 2.1 attempts per game). That’s not “broken jumper” territory; that’s “defences dare you to shoot” territory. Add in his league-leading turnover rate among high-minute guards (3.2 per 36 minutes) and a defensive rating that drags units underwater, and you’ve got a player whose plus/minus has been negative for five straight seasons.
Westbrook’s style—ball-dominant, paint-attacking, reluctant passer in crunch time—worked in limited roles with the Clippers and Nuggets, where he came off the bench. But starting him? That’s where the wheels fall off. He logged a usage rate north of 25% last year, jacking up contested twos and forcing the issue when smarter reads were available. For a Bucks team already questioning its backcourt rhythm, injecting Westbrook’s chaos would amplify the noise, not harmonize it.
Let’s game this out. Imagine Porter Jr. (or whoever starts) sharing the floor with Westbrook in a two-PG lineup. Both are undersized (Porter at 6’4″, Westbrook at 6’3″), both love to handle, and neither shoots well enough from deep to punish switches. Result? A backcourt traffic jam that funnels everything into the mid-range—precisely what killed Milwaukee’s spacing last year. Giannis would feast on lobs and cuts, but Portis’ spot-up game gets neutralized, and others off-ball movement turns into a crawl.
Offensively, Westbrook’s inefficiency would compound the Bucks’ issues. His true shooting percentage sat at 50.2% last season—below league average for guards—and he’d be chucking in high-leverage spots. Defensively? Forget it. Westbrook’s lateral quickness has eroded with age; opponents targeted him relentlessly in Denver, leading to a -4.1 net rating in his minutes. Pair that with Porter’s own defensive lapses, and Milwaukee’s perimeter D—already middling—becomes a sieve. The Eastern Conference is loaded with sharpshooters like Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Haliburton, and Trae Young; Westbrook’s gambling for steals would leave Giannis in iso hell on the other end.
Even in a bench role, it’s a mismatch. The Bucks need a microwave scorer or a true combo guard to spell Porter, not a volume creator who hogs touches from a second unit featuring Portis and Trent. As Brew Hoop astutely noted, “Milwaukee would be wise to pass” because Westbrook’s skill set doesn’t align with Doc Rivers’ preference for structured, ball-movement offenses. Rivers thrived with balanced units in Boston and Philly; Westbrook’s heliocentric approach would feel like a step backward.
The Greek Freak has chinks in his armour—flaws that have been dissected ad nauseam, from his inconsistent free-throw shooting (hovering around 71% career, with dips in high-pressure moments) to his limited outside game (a career 28.9% from three, forcing defences to pack the paint). Add in occasional half-court stagnation, where his ball-handling can lead to turnovers if lanes aren’t open, and play making lapses under duress, and you’ve got vulnerabilities that savvy teams exploit in the playoffs. Now, imagine pairing him with Russell Westbrook, a guard whose declining skill set would turn these weaknesses into glaring liabilities, potentially derailing Milwaukee’s offence and exhausting their star.
At the core of the mismatch is spacing—or the lack thereof. Giannis thrives when the floor is stretched, allowing him to euro-step through open driving lanes without meeting a wall of defenders. Westbrook, however, is a non-shooter from deep, converting just 31.4% on minimal attempts last season, which invites opponents to sag off him and dare the brick. This defensive strategy would clog the paint even more than usual, forcing Giannis into contested drives or pull-up jumpers—shots he’s notoriously inefficient at. We’ve seen this movie before: In the 2025 playoffs, without Damian Lillard’s gravity pulling defenders out, Giannis’ efficiency dipped in half-court sets, with turnovers spiking as he tried to force plays. Westbrook’s presence would exacerbate this, turning Giannis’ drives into a mosh pit and highlighting his reluctance (or inability) to punish from outside. Defenses could essentially play 5-on-4 in the lane, neutralizing Giannis’ greatest strength and pushing him toward more free throws—where his mental blocks and mechanical issues often rear their head, as evidenced by his sub-60% FT% in key 2025 EuroBasket games.
Defensively, the ripple effects would be just as damaging. Westbrook’s eroded lateral quickness and gambling tendencies have made him a target for opponents, often resulting in blow-bys and open looks that require help-side rotations. Giannis, already Milwaukee’s defensive anchor as a roaming rim protector, would be forced to cover more ground, cleaning up Westbrook’s messes while expending extra energy. This added workload could accelerate fatigue for the 30-year-old superstar, who’s shown signs of wear in recent seasons, and amplify his occasional lapses in perimeter containment—another subtle weakness when he’s stretched thin. Moreover, Westbrook’s ball-dominant style and high turnover rate (3.2 per 36 minutes) would disrupt rhythm, potentially reducing Giannis’ touches in favourable spots and forcing him into more isolation creation, where his playmaking vision isn’t elite. In a post-Lillard Bucks backcourt already lacking facilitators, this chaos would spotlight Giannis’ half-court limitations, turning him from a dominant force into a frustrated one-man army.
Beyond the tape, there’s the intangibles. Westbrook is a warrior—fiercely competitive and vocal—but his intensity has rubbed teammates the wrong way. Remember his Lakers tenure? What started as a “Big Three” experiment devolved into finger-pointing and a first-round exit. Perkins himself admitted to warning Westbrook about his “cancerous” behaviour back then, a comment that ended their friendship. In Denver, he was a positive vet, but that was as a reserve. Thrust him into a starting role on a pressure-cooker team like Milwaukee, and the alpha clashes could erupt—especially with a young, unproven Porter Jr. needing guidance, not competition.
The Bucks can’t afford distractions. With a win-now core entering its mid-30s window, they need cohesion, not controversy.
Russell Westbrook deserves a ring and a graceful fade-out on a contender’s bench. But the Bucks? They’re not that team—not with their spacing starvation, defensive vulnerabilities, and need for harmony. Pairing him with this roster wouldn’t unlock potential; it’d expose flaws. As Reddit’s NBA hive mind put it, Westbrook’s playstyle “only works on one team in the league,” and Milwaukee ain’t it. Doc Rivers and Jon Horst have built a contender; don’t let nostalgia torch it.
Fans and analysts alike rave about his ability to turn misses into dunks, grabbing a rebound and barreling down the court for easy buckets. It’s the stuff of legends—YouTube compilations with millions of views, “unstoppable” chants on social media, and endless debates about whether he’s the best fast-break player ever. But let’s pump the brakes. While Giannis is a transition monster in the cushy confines of the regular season—where defences jog back and space is plentiful—the data tells a different story when the lights get brighter. In the playoffs, against elite schemes designed to clog the lane, his transition game crumbles under pressure. High turnover rates, plummeting efficiency, and a reliance on “easier” opportunities reveal a player who’s great at exploiting mismatches in blowouts but struggles to deliver when it counts.
In this deep dive, we’ll break down the key transition metrics: Points Per Possession (PPP), Frequency of Transition Opportunities, effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%), True Shooting Percentage (TS%), Turnover Rate (TOV%), Assists per Possession, On/Off Plus-Minus, Box Score Impact, and Offensive Rating (ORTG). Using data from the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons (regular and playoffs where available), we’ll show how Giannis’s transition dominance is a regular-season mirage. Spoiler: It’s not as freakish as you think.
In the 82-game grind, Giannis thrives in transition. The Bucks ranked top-5 in transition frequency league-wide in 2023-24, and Giannis was the engine, leading the NBA in transition points per game at 7.5 while tying for the most opportunities at 6.1 per game. His PPP? A blistering 1.42—well above the league average of ~1.15 for transition plays. That’s elite territory, turning fast breaks into automatic offence. For sure in the regular season most serious players – with their mind on the playoffs – don’t want to stand in front of him.
But dig deeper, and even here, cracks show. His eFG% in transition hovered around 78.6% in 2023-24, absurdly high thanks to dunks and layups, but his TS% dipped below 80% when factoring in occasional misses or fouls. Turnover rate? A manageable 12-15%, but it spikes when defences load up. Assists per possession are low (0.25-0.30), meaning he’s mostly iso-dribbling to the rim rather than creating for others—great for highlights, less so for sustainable team play.
Here’s a snapshot of Giannis’s 2023-24 regular-season transition stats compared to league leaders (via NBA.com and Synergy data):
| Metric | Giannis (2023-24 Reg) | League Avg (Transition) | Top Player (e.g., Ja Morant) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPP | 1.42 | 1.15 | 1.48 |
| Frequency (%) | 18.2% (Bucks’ possessions) | 14.5% | 20.1% |
| eFG% | 78.6% | 65.0% | 82.0% |
| TS% | 79.2% | 68.5% | 83.5% |
| TOV% | 13.8% | 12.0% | 10.2% |
| AST per Poss | 0.28 | 0.22 | 0.35 |
| ORTG | 128.5 | 115.0 | 132.0 |
Sources: NBA.com Stats, GiveMeSport analysis
On/Off plus-minus tells the tale: Bucks outscored opponents by +12.5 per 100 possessions in transition with Giannis on the floor, but only +8.2 when off—still good, but the drop-off highlights his outsized role (and risk). Box score impact? He accounts for ~35% of Milwaukee’s transition points, but the team’s overall transition ORTG falls to 122 when he forces contested drives.
This works against tired, rotating defences in mid-January matinees. But playoffs? That’s where the “easier games” vanish.
Enter the postseason, where coaches scheme to deny space. Teams like the Heat (2023) and Pacers (2024) dare Giannis to pass, pack the paint, and force him into traffic. The result? His transition game regresses hard. In 2023 (vs. Miami and Boston), Giannis’s transition PPP dropped to 1.18—below league playoff average—and his frequency plummeted as the Bucks’ break opportunities dried up to 12.5% of possessions.
Turnovers are the killer. Giannis’s playoff TOV% in transition balloons to 18-20%, nearly double his regular-season mark. Remember Game 4 vs. the Heat in 2023? 6 transition turnovers alone, leading to 12 Miami fast-break points. Career playoff high: 8 TOs in a single game (2019 ECF vs. Toronto). He ranks in the top 25 for playoff TOV per game historically, a damning stat for a “freak” who should glide past defenders.
Efficiency tanks too. eFG% falls to ~65%, TS% to 62-65%—playoff-average at best. Why? No space means more contested finishes, fewer and-ones. Assists per possession? A measly 0.18, as he refuses to kick out under duress. In 2021 Finals vs. Phoenix, his transition ORTG was a pedestrian 112, with Bucks outscored by 15 in break points during his minutes.
Compare 2023 playoffs to regular season:
| Metric | Giannis (2023 Reg) | Giannis (2023 Playoffs) | League Playoff Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPP | 1.42 | 1.18 | 1.12 |
| Frequency (%) | 18.2% | 12.8% | 13.5% |
| eFG% | 78.6% | 65.2% | 64.0% |
| TS% | 79.2% | 63.8% | 66.5% |
| TOV% | 13.8% | 19.2% | 14.0% |
| AST per Poss | 0.28 | 0.18 | 0.24 |
| ORTG | 128.5 | 112.0 | 114.5 |
Sources: Basketball-Reference, Reddit NBA analysis
And when looking at these stats remember that Giannis has had 3 first round exits! His statistics reflect only one series with an easier opponent, not multiple games getting gradually harder as other players’ stats do.
On/Off plus-minus flips negative: -4.2 per 100 in transition during playoff minutes, per Cleaning the Glass data. Box score impact? He generates just 22% of Bucks’ transition points in playoffs (down from 35%), and the team’s transition ORTG craters to 105—bottom-quartile. In 2024, Giannis missed the entire first-round loss to Indiana due to calf strain, but even without him, Milwaukee’s transition scoring fell 25% from regular-season norms, underscoring his “irreplaceable” role… until defences adapt.
The pattern is clear: Giannis feasts on transition against bottom-10 defences (e.g., 2023-24 vs. Wizards, Pistons: 1.55 PPP, 5% TOV%). But against top-5 units like Boston or Miami? PPP dips under 1.20, TOV% over 20%. In “easier” regular-season games (Bucks win by 15+), his transition eFG% hits 82%; in close losses, it’s 58%.
This isn’t elite adaptability—it’s opportunism. Playoff teams eliminate those “spaces” with disciplined shell defence, forcing Giannis into half-court hero ball where his ORTG drops 10-15 points. His On/Off in high-leverage playoff minutes? -8.5 transition plus-minus, per RAPM estimates. Box score? Fewer transition FGM (down 30%), more TOs feeding opponent runs.
Giannis in transition is a regular-season weapon, padding stats in open floors against over matched foes that are protecting their best players for the playoffs. But when it counts—playoffs, close games, elite defences—the metrics expose him: subpar PPP, leaky TOV%, middling efficiency, and negative impact. He’s not “bad” outright, but far from the unstoppable force narrative. To win titles, Milwaukee needs him to evolve: better passing in traffic, mid-range threats to open lanes (he’s working on it), or a system beyond “feed the Freak.”
The data doesn’t lie. Next time you see a transition dunk, ask: Would that fly in May? Probably not.
Data compiled from NBA.com, Basketball-Reference, Cleaning the Glass, and The Athletic. All stats per 100 possessions unless noted.
In NBA analytics, some stats cut through the hype and reveal uncomfortable truths. The “BEAST ON THE BOARDS” chart illustrates how star big men’s presence impacts their team’s rebound percentages. Players like Steven Adams (+19.1 OREB%, +18.5 TREB%) and Nikola Jokic (+3.1, +6.2) boost their squads, living up to their reputations as rebounding forces. But then there’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, with negative differentials: -3.1 OREB% and -0.2 TREB%. This isn’t a glitch—it’s a pattern that questions the “Greek Freak’s” true impact.
Giannis posts gaudy individual numbers, averaging double-digit rebounds most seasons, but the team’s rebounding suffers when he’s on the floor. Why? It’s not just about team dynamics; it’s tied to Giannis’ evolving priorities, defensive shortcomings, and a focus on personal stats over team success. Since his 2019-20 Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, his defence has declined, he’s emphasised offence, chased highlights, and padded rebounds—often at the expense of cohesive play. Let’s break it down with data and context.
Before we dissect Giannis’ case, let’s clarify the stat. Rebound percentage measures the share of available rebounds a team (or player) secures while on the court. It’s more insightful than raw rebounds because it accounts for pace and opportunities—after all, a fast-paced game might have more misses, but the percentage normalizes that.
The “on-off differential” compares the team’s performance in these metrics when a player is on the court versus off. A positive number means the team rebounds better with the player playing; a negative means they rebound better without them.
Data from sites like Cleaning the Glass shows this isn’t a one-off fluke for Giannis. In the 2021-22 season (which aligns closely with the chart’s numbers, showing -2.8 OREB% on-off), and other years like 2018-19 (-1.2%) and 2020-21 (-1.9%), Giannis posted negative differentials. Yet, in more recent seasons like 2023-24 (+2.6 OREB%) and 2024-25 (+1.8%), it’s flipped positive. So, what’s going on?
Giannis ranks among the league’s top rebounders, but scrutiny reveals issues:
| Season | Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | Total Rebound % (TRB%) | Defensive Rating (DRtg) | Defensive BPM (DBPM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-20 | 13.6 | 21.4% | 97 | 4.1 |
| 2020-21 | 11.0 | 18.5% | 107 | 2.8 |
| 2021-22 | 11.6 | 19.2% | 106 | 3.5 |
| 2022-23 | 11.8 | 19.8% | 108 | 2.7 |
| 2023-24 | 11.5 | 18.8% | 112 | 2.4 |
| 2024-25 | 11.9 | 19.5% | 109 | 2.5 |
(Source: Basketball-Reference)
His RPG and TRB% are solid, but notice the defensive metrics. Post-DPOY (where he posted a league-best 97 DRtg), his DRtg has worsened to 107-112, indicating more points allowed per 100 possessions. DBPM, measuring defensive impact, dropped from 4.1 to as low as 2.4. This decline correlates with negative rebound diffs, as poor defence leads to more opponent makes—and fewer rebound chances.
Giannis won DPOY in 2019-20 as a versatile defender, using his 7-foot wingspan for help defence and rim protection. But since then, his effort has waned. Analysts note he’s prioritised offence over grinding on D. Bucks’ schemes rely on him as a free safety, but he often chases “highlight reel” plays—spectacular blocks or steals—instead of sticking to plans.
This individualism disrupts team rebounding. Teammates “clear out” on misses, letting Giannis grab easy defensive boards to pad stats, rather than contesting collectively. A notorious 2023 incident saw him intentionally miss a shot for his own rebound to secure a triple-double, later rescinded by the NBA amid “stat-padding” backlash. Fans and media called it “shameless,” highlighting a pattern where personal milestones trump team efficiency.
Giannis’ late start in basketball—he didn’t play organised ball until age 13 in Greece—shows in his reflexes and scheme comprehension. Unlike peers who honed instincts young, he struggles with complex switches in modern pick-and-roll defences. He’s not fast enough laterally to guard perimeter threats, often getting blown by or mispositioned. This leads to breakdowns: Opponents exploit gaps, leading to more makes and fewer Bucks rebounds.
In high-pace lineups with Giannis, the team leaks out for transitions, but his defensive lapses mean more opponent scores—reducing OREB% opportunities. Bench units, without him, play more structured, grabbing boards at higher rates. Social media discussions echo this: “Giannis was only ever a helpside defender… not much of a rim protector.” His blocks (around 1-1.5/game post-DPOY) are flashy but don’t anchor like Gobert’s.
Sure, roster changes matter—Brook Lopez’s injuries forced adjustments, and backups like Bobby Portis (16.5% TRB% in 2021-22) feast in non-Giannis minutes. But this masks Giannis’ issues. He faces starters, but his declining DBPM suggests he’s not elevating the unit. Bucks’ overall TREB% (50-52%) is average, but negatives persist because Giannis’ style—offence-first, stat-chasing—trades team rebounding for personal glory.
He’s in his prime physically but coasting defensively.
Giannis’ negative on-off rebound diffs aren’t a paradox—they’re a symptom of prioritising offence, highlights, and stats over defence and team play. His late basketball start hampers reflexes in schemes, and rebound “padding” inflates numbers while hurting the Bucks. Milwaukee won in 2021 despite this, but as defences evolve, Giannis must recommit defensively. In 2025-26, under Doc Rivers, watch if he adapts—or if the illusion crumbles further.
The basketball world was buzzing after the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals on September 12, when Turkey pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Greece 82-74 to advance to the finals for the first time in 24 years. At the centre of the drama? None other than Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time MVP and perennial NBA Defensive Player of the Year candidate, who was held to a shocking 12 points on 6-of-13 shooting. For a player who is presented as unguardable throughout his career—averaging over 25 points per game in the tournament up to that point—this was a defensive clinic that exposed vulnerabilities in the Greek Freak’s game.
Turkey, under coach Ergin Ataman, didn’t just defend Giannis; they dissected him with a blend of physicality, teamwork, and tactical precision. This wasn’t a fluke—it was a blueprint that echoes strategies we’ve seen (and debated) in the NBA for years. Three years of early playoff exits, three years of losing even in the regular season against teams that care enough to defend him like this.
Greece entered the semifinal as favourites, largely on Giannis’s reputation. By sheer luck of the bracket however Greece had not faced any serious opponents. Giannis skillfully avoid playing against Nurkic because he knew what would happen. (They lost anyway, Giannis avoided looking foolish though.) The recipe is simple:
Turkey’s first line of attack was simple but ruthless: make it hard for Greece to get the ball to Giannis. Guards Sehmus Hazer and Shane Larkin (yes, the ex-Celtics sharpshooter now starring for Anadolu Efes) hounded the inbounders and ball-handlers, using quick hands and relentless pressure to force 12 turnovers in the first half alone. Cedi Osman, the NBA veteran forward, chipped in by switching onto Giannis in open court, denying easy touches and forcing him to receive the ball further from the rim than he prefers.
This tactic preyed on one of Giannis’s subtler weaknesses: his ball-handling under duress. At 6’11” with a long stride, he’s a transition monster, but Turkey’s transition defence was lockdown—limiting fast breaks and keeping Greece in a half-court grind. As Alperen Sengun later noted in a post-game interview, “We knew if we let him bring the ball up freely, it was over. So we trapped early and often.”
Enter Ercan Osmani, Turkey’s 6’10” power forward and the unsung hero of the night. Osmani drew the primary assignment, bodying Giannis in the post and contesting every move with physicality that matched the Freak’s ferocity. But this wasn’t hero-ball defence; it was a relay. Whenever Giannis put the ball on the floor inside the three-point line, the paint collapsed. Sengun, the Houston Rockets’ rising star centre, rotated over as the “wall,” swatting at drives and contesting lobs without leaving his man exposed.
Shane Larkin summed it up perfectly in a post-game breakdown: “The plan was to collapse whenever he raised that ball to drive. Force the kick-out, then rotate hard on the perimeter. We accepted threes from their guards—guys like [Thomas] Walkup aren’t lights-out shooters.” This “shrink the floor” approach turned Giannis into a passer and like Sengun had said before the game “Giannis is not a great passer.”
When Giannis did touch the ball in his sweet spot—the low block or mid-post—Turkey flipped the script to a hybrid zone. Double-teams (often Osman and Sengun) quickly escalated to triples, with a third defender (frequently Osman circling back or Hazer digging in) forming what one reporter called a “fortress wall.” Passing lanes were clogged, leading to strips and turnovers. Physicality was key: Turkey played with NBA-level bump-and-turn, wearing Giannis down over 35 minutes.
The result? Giannis, who thrives on momentum and space, looked frustrated—good for just 12 points, 12 rebounds, and those 5 assists. Turkey’s bench erupted after a key sequence in the third quarter where a triple-team forced a kick-out that sailed wide, sealing the momentum shift. It was defense as performance art: collective, adaptive, and unrelenting.
EuroBasket might play at a slower tempo than the NBA’s breakneck speed, but Turkey’s blueprint is straight out of the league’s defensive playbook. Giannis’s dominance—elite athleticism, length, and finishing—makes him a matchup nightmare, but he’s not invincible. His game relies on driving lanes, transition opportunities, and post-ups, all of which can be neutralized with smart team defense. Here’s why Turkey’s tactics aren’t just FIBA-specific:
Coined during the 2021 playoffs when the Heat and Nets tried (and sometimes succeeded) in slowing Giannis, “The Wall” involves funneling him baseline or middle with on-ball pressure, then crowding the paint with help defenders. Turkey executed this to perfection, much like the Miami Heat’s 2020 bubble run, where Bam Adebayo and a rotating cast of bigs forced Giannis into 5+ turnovers per game. In the NBA, where spacing is tighter due to better shooters, teams live with contested threes from role players (e.g., Bucks’ Pat Connaughton) rather than letting Giannis bulldoze to the rim.
The NBA’s 82-game grind amplifies Turkey’s physical approach. Giannis averages 34+ minutes per game; constant doubles wear him down, forcing passes that expose slower rotations. Data from the 2024-25 season shows Giannis’s efficiency dips 15% against teams that trap him 20%+ of possessions (per Second Spectrum tracking). Turkey’s zone hybrids mirror what the Warriors used in their March 2025 win over Milwaukee, where Draymond Green orchestrated rotations to limit Giannis to 18 points.
FIBA rules limit fast breaks slightly, but the principle holds: Deny outlet passes and force half-court sets. In the NBA, where Giannis scores 40% of his points in transition, teams like the Celtics use length (Tatum, Brown) to mirror this, dropping Milwaukee’s transition efficiency by 12 points per 100 possessions in recent matchups.
In short, Turkey’s win proves that with discipline, no star is untouchable—especially one whose jumper (still a work in progress at 29.5% from three in 2025) keeps defenses honest but not terrified. After all as I have explained at length and with much statistical proof, Giannis has no mid range when it matters.
Over Giannis’s decade in the league, only a select few have consistently turned him mortal. These aren’t just stat-line suppressors; they’re tacticians who force the Bucks to play “away” from their star. Here’s a rundown of the most effective, based on playoff and regular-season matchups (points per possession allowed under 1.00, per NBA Advanced Stats):
Bam’s the closest thing to a 1v1 kryptonite. In the 2020 and 2023 playoffs, he held Giannis to 22.4 PPG on 48% shooting, using his lateral quickness to stay in front and strength to absorb contact. Fun fact: Adebayo’s the only defender who’s outscored Giannis in head-to-head minutes while forcing 2.1 turnovers per game. Why it works? Bam funnels him without help, buying time for rotations.
Embiid’s size (7’0″, 280 lbs) and IQ make him a post-up nightmare. In 2023 Eastern Conference Semis, Philly’s scheme with Embiid as the anchor dropped Giannis to 19.8 PPG. He’s physical enough to bang without fouling and mobile enough to recover on drives—key against Giannis’s euro-steps.
Green’s not matching Giannis’s athleticism, but his brain is unmatched. In the Warriors’ 104-93 dismantling of the Bucks in March 2025, Draymond guarded him straight-up for 28 minutes, limiting him to 18 points on 7-18 shooting. It’s all about positioning: Green pressures full-court, funnels baseline, and communicates traps like a quarterback. Career vs. Giannis: Holds him under 1.05 PPP.
Three-time DPOY Gobert’s length (7’9″ wingspan) clogs lanes. In 2024 playoffs, Minnesota’s “Gobert Wall” (with Jaden McDaniels) restricted Giannis to 24 PPG on 52% eFG%. Rudy’s not quick enough for full games, but in drop coverage, he erases lobs and weak-side help.
Tucker’s the ultimate “annoyance” defender. During the 2019 Raptors run, he bodied Giannis into 22.3 PPG on inefficient shots. His low center of gravity and hand-fighting disrupted rhythm—perfect for half-court sets.
Honorable mentions: Al Horford (Celtics’ zone wizardry in 2022 ECF), Jayson Tatum (versatile switching), and OG Anunoby (Raptors’ length in isolation). Hell, even the much shorter Dillon Brooks last season wiped Giannis on his own!
Turkey’s EuroBasket triumph wasn’t just a win—it was a reminder that basketball’s a team sport, even against unicorns like Giannis. By disrupting flow, collapsing space, and embracing the grind, they turned a supernova into a shooting star. In the NBA, where schemes evolve daily, expect more coaches to dust off this playbook as the Bucks chase another ring.
What’s next for the Greek Freak? A sharper jumper? Better pick-and-roll vision? It doesn’t seem like he has added anything at all to his game all these years. More and more NBA players will just pull him apart like Turkey did. Bucks’ fans get confused because in easy games in the regular season most teams don’t bother. Why risk injury when so many times the officials don’t even give you the clear offensive foul Giannis commits? But when it counts? Three first round exits say “Giannis ain’t got it no more”.
Sources: FIBA EuroBasket recaps, Basketball Sphere analysis, JSONline game reports, NBA Advanced Stats, and Second Spectrum data.
If you’ve been scrolling through NBA offseason chatter, you’ve probably seen the glowing takes on the Milwaukee Bucks’ revamped frontcourt. With Giannis Antetokounmpo anchoring the middle, the addition of Myles Turner for elite rim protection, and Bobby Portis providing that spark-plug energy, some pundits are calling it a “wall of bigs” that could reshape the Eastern Conference. Doc Rivers now has a trio of towers that, in theory, dominate both ends of the floor. Portis himself hyped it up: “We can grow together. We can get better together. You can’t really find three better bigs together on any other team.” It’s a seductive narrative—the Bucks rising back to championship glory with sheer size and athleticism.
But hold up. As much as I love a good underdog story (or in this case, a powerhouse resurgence), this view strikes me as overly optimistic. It’s the kind of hot take that ignores the gritty realities of NBA basketball: chemistry, spacing, match ups, and the unforgiving nature of playoff hoops.
At the heart of the optimism is the idea that Giannis, Turner, and Portis form a versatile, energy-packed unit. Giannis, the two-time MVP and perennial All-NBA force, is the engine—driving, dunking, and defending like a freight train. Turner brings modern big-man skills: stretch-five potential with his three-point shooting (career 35% from deep) and top-tier shot-blocking (he’s led the league in blocks multiple times). Portis? He’s the ultimate sixth man, a fearless rebounder and scorer off the bench who averaged 13.8 points and 7.4 rebounds last season while shooting 40% from three.
Sounds perfect, right? Wrong. The real issue is fit. All three players operate primarily in the paint or as rollers in pick-and-rolls. Giannis thrives on drives to the rim, where he draws fouls and collapses defences but he can’t screen, let’s face it. Turner, despite his shooting, is best as a drop-coverage centre who protects the rim without much mobility to switch onto guards. Portis is a bulldog inside, excelling in hustle plays but lacking the foot speed for perimeter defence. When you stack them together, you’re essentially turning the paint into a traffic jam.
Imagine a possession: Giannis posts up, Turner sets a screen and rolls, and Portis crashes the boards. Defenses like the Boston Celtics or Philadelphia 76ers—teams loaded with switchable wings—will simply pack the lane and dare the Bucks to shoot from outside. Milwaukee’s offense already ranked mid-tier in three-point attempts last season (around 35 per game), and without reliable spacing from this frontcourt trio, Giannis’s efficiency could dip. He already shot his worse season ever for 3pt% last season. Hell worse in NBA history almost! Turner’s three-point volume is solid (about 3-4 attempts per game), but he’s not a volume bomber like Karl-Anthony Towns. Portis hits spot-up threes, but his attempts are sporadic and his percentages can be streaky.
In the playoffs, where spacing is king, this could be fatal. Remember how the Bucks struggled against the Heat in 2023? Jimmy Butler feasted by exploiting poor floor balance. A “wall of bigs” might sound imposing, but without perimeter threats to pull defenders away, it’s more like a sitting duck.
On paper, this trio screams defensive dominance. Giannis is a Defensive Player of the Year candidate with his length and instincts. Turner is a perennial blocks leader (1.5+ per game career average), providing the anchor Milwaukee lacked after trading away Jrue Holiday’s versatility. Portis adds rebounding grit, helping control the glass (the Bucks were top-10 in defensive rebounding last year).
But let’s pump the brakes. While they might stifle slashers and protect the rim, modern NBA offenses exploit bigs who can’t switch. Turner is a classic drop big—great at erasing shots at the hoop but vulnerable to pick-and-rolls where guards like Jalen Brunson or Tyrese Maxey can pull him out of position. Giannis can switch 1-4, but asking him to guard elite wings every night wears him down. Portis? He’s a liability on the perimeter; opponents targeted him in switches last season, and his 6’10” frame doesn’t translate to elite foot speed against quicker forwards.
The East is a minefield of versatile scorers: Jayson Tatum, Joel Embiid, Donovan Mitchell, and even Paolo Banchero. In a seven-game series, teams will hunt mismatches relentlessly. Doc Rivers’ defensive schemes have historically relied on communication and help defense, but integrating three bigs with overlapping roles could lead to breakdowns. And Giannis is not know for high IQ plays, adaptability or even managing to understand complex systems. It’s not just about blocks—it’s about containment. This “wall” might hold against lesser teams but crumble under sustained pressure from playoff juggernauts. Which is a very common Bucks’ theme. Everyone gets excited in the regular season but then when it matters? Zilch!
The optimism assumes Giannis can carry the offense as the “engine,” with Turner and Portis providing secondary scoring. But here’s the rub: Milwaukee lacks true perimeter creation. Without a secondary ball-handler or elite spot-up shooters in the frontcourt, the Bucks become predictable. Giannis’s heliocentric style works when there’s spacing, but against teams that double-team him (as the Celtics did effectively in recent years), who kicks out to? Turner’s shooting helps, but he’s not a playmaker (career 0.5 assists per game). Portis is more of a finisher than a facilitator. This trio doesn’t address Milwaukee’s need for off-ball movement or multiple creators—issues that plagued them in the playoffs.
Compare other front courts that stretch the floor, switch seamlessly, and have multiple threats. The Bucks’ setup feels like a throwback to the 90s bully-ball era, which the three-point revolution has largely rendered obsolete.
No discussion of this frontcourt is complete without addressing durability. Giannis is a tank, playing 70+ games most seasons, but he’s had calf and hamstring scares that sidelined him at critical times. Turner? His injury history is a red flag—he missed 25 games last season with a stress reaction in his foot and has dealt with calf strains and ankle issues throughout his career. Portis is tougher, but at 29, he’s not immune to wear-and-tear from his high-energy style.
In a league where load management is king, relying on three bigs means depth is crucial. If Turner goes down (a real possibility given his track record), the Bucks fall back on Portis and maybe a less proven option like Sandro Mamukelashvili. Suddenly, that “unmatched trio” becomes a duo, and the wall crumbles. The optimism glosses over this fragility—health isn’t guaranteed, especially in a grind-it-out Eastern Conference. Especially the way Giannis plays. So far he has counted on teams not bothering to defend him all on in the regular season. But there are young teams and players who saw what happened in Greece vs Turkey and might want to take on the challenge. It’s not that hard. If Dillon Brooks can shut Giannis down, hey, many can.
Doc Rivers brings championship pedigree (2008 with the Celtics), but his Bucks tenure has been rocky. Last season, Milwaukee underperformed expectations, exiting in the first round despite superstar talent. Integrating Turner—a new acquisition—alongside Giannis and Portis requires time. Rivers’ systems emphasize veteran leadership, but bigs need reps to gel on rotations, pick-and-roll timing, and defensive coverages.
Portis’s quote about “growing together” is feel-good, but NBA reality is harsher. Chemistry takes preseason games, early-season tweaks, and avoiding early slumps. Rivers has a history of slow starts (e.g., with the Clippers), and if the frontcourt experiments flop, fan frustration could mount. This isn’t a plug-and-play unit; it’s a high-risk rebuild of the paint.
Finally, let’s zoom out. The East is stacked: Boston’s dynasty-level depth, Philly’s Embiid-led firepower, Cleveland’s young guns, New York’s grit, and Orlando’s athleticism. The Bucks’ bigs might bully some teams, but against elite defenses, they’ll struggle. The Celtics, for instance, ranked first in defensive rating last season and have wings who can body Giannis while shooters pull him away. Philly could match size with Embiid and Paul Reed, turning games into slugfests where Turner’s blocks are neutralized.
In simulations or advanced metrics (like those from Cleaning the Glass), heavy-big lineups often underperform in pace-and-space eras. The Bucks might win 50+ games, but a deep playoff run? That’s where optimism meets reality. Last season let’s not forget that the Bucks beat zero teams above 0,500 in the regular season even.
One of the primary concerns with pairing Turner and Giannis is their overlapping preferences for operating near the basket, which could lead to congested spacing if not managed carefully. Giannis thrives on drives, post-ups, and transition attacks, averaging 30.4 points per game last season with a heavy emphasis on paint touches. Turner, while a capable stretch big (career 35% from three on about 3-4 attempts per game), isn’t a high-volume bomber like Kristaps Porziņģis or Karl-Anthony Towns, and his scoring often comes from pick-and-rolls or spot-ups rather than creating off the dribble. In Indiana, Turner’s teams weren’t dominant on the glass or in creating open looks, and analysts worry that without elite perimeter threats around them, defenses could sag off and pack the paint, limiting Giannis’s efficiency.
That said, Turner’s agility and shooting could mitigate this better than Brook Lopez did in recent years, allowing for more fluid movement offences like dribble hand-offs (DHOs) and short-roll decisions. Discussions online emphasise that Turner’s floor-spacing ability is a step up, potentially enabling three-guard lineups to pull defenders out. However, if Turner’s three-point volume doesn’t increase (he averaged just 3.5 attempts last season), the duo risks becoming predictable, especially in playoffs where teams like the Boston Celtics exploit poor spacing with switchable wings. Early posts from fans highlight the need for additional 3-and-D players to surround them, underscoring that their fit relies heavily on roster tweaks for optimal spacing. But this is just the common Bucks’ fans excuse isn’t it? “If only we had sharp shooters that never miss from the 3pt line…” Duh!
A glaring issue is Turner’s role as a potential second-leading scorer, especially after the Bucks traded Damian Lillard, leaving a void in perimeter creation and high-volume scoring. Turner’s career-high scoring is 18 points per game (from 2021-22), far below Lillard’s 25+ PPG output, and he’s more of a finisher than a self-creator, relying on screens and spot-ups rather than isolation plays. Analysts like those at The Athletic question whether Turner can handle the Bucks’ expectations to average more while maintaining two-way impact, noting that asking him to fill Lillard’s shoes could be overly demanding. Giannis has expressed excitement about Turner’s ability to shoot and drive, but reports suggest he’s internally questioning if Turner is a true championship-caliber second option.
This lack of secondary creation exacerbates the Bucks’ offensive predictability. Without a reliable playmaker to alleviate pressure on Giannis, the frontcourt duo might struggle in half-court sets against elite defenses. Pundits like Bill Simmons have called the signing “desperate,” arguing that paying Turner $27 million annually highlights deeper roster flaws rather than solving them. While the Giannis-Turner pick-and-roll has “scary” potential, the team’s offensive ceiling depends on a committee approach, which could lead to inconsistent production if Turner under performs.
Defensively, the pairing shines in theory: Giannis is arguably the best help defender in NBA history, and Turner has led the league in blocks multiple times, providing elite rim protection. Turner’s mobility is an upgrade over Lopez, allowing for better switching and perimeter pressure, potentially enabling aggressive schemes with Giannis roaming. However, Turner’s drop-coverage style exposes weaknesses in isolation match ups against quicker forwards or guards, where his foot speed can be exploited. Analysts point out that Turner isn’t a direct Lopez replacement on defence, and without addressing the Bucks’ past perimeter vulnerabilities, the duo alone won’t fix team-wide issues. Giannis is no longer the best help defender, he seems more concerned with wondering aimlessly about looking for a highlight block.
Head coach Doc Rivers’ system is a potential mismatch, with critics on Reddit warning that his outdated schemes could hinder Turner’s impact, limiting the duo to regular-season success rather than playoff dominance. The Bucks’ front office views Turner as an “evolution” of Lopez, but integrating him requires chemistry-building, especially with a younger roster post-Lillard. Depth remains a red flag; as ClutchPoints notes, the Bucks lack enough support around Giannis, meaning Turner must be exceptional, not average, to open the championship window—potentially necessitating midseason trades.
Giannis’s media day comments didn’t fully ease future concerns, hinting at underlying doubts about the roster’s competitiveness. While Turner is excited about the fit and their early communication, the pressure on this duo to gel quickly is immense, given Milwaukee’s recent first-round exits.
The Turner-Giannis pairing offers tantalising potential—a mobile, two-way frontcourt that could dominate the paint and stretch defences. Yet, fit issues in spacing, creation, defensive versatility, and team integration make it a gamble. For the Bucks to succeed, Turner must elevate his game, the roster needs bolstering, and Rivers must adapt. Without these, this “wall of bigs” might crumble under playoff scrutiny, as sceptics like Simmons suggest. As training camp approaches, watch for preseason chemistry; it could determine if this duo propels Milwaukee back to contention or exposes deeper flaws.Look, I get the excitement—the Bucks have talent for days, and if everything clicks, this front court could be special. Giannis is a generational force, and adding Turner’s defence addresses a key weakness. But labelling it an “unmatched trio” that will “reshape the East” ignores the NBA’s complexities. Spacing issues, defensive mismatches, creation gaps, injury woes, integration hurdles, and stiff competition make this more gamble than guarantee.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite being one of the most dominant names in the NBA, possesses limitations that inherently make it challenging for any teammate to thrive alongside him, including someone like Turner. His subpar outside shooting—career 28.9% from three on low volume—forces defences to sag off him, clogging driving lanes and reducing spacing for others, which particularly hampers bigs who also prefer interior play and requires a supporting cast heavy on elite shooters to open up the floor. Furthermore, Giannis’s heliocentric playing style, where he handles the ball extensively (usage rate often above 30%), demands complementary pieces who excel in spot-up shooting and off-ball movement, limiting the effectiveness of players without strong perimeter skills and reducing opportunities for teammates to cut or create independently. His inconsistent free-throw shooting (around 70% career) invites “Hack-a-Giannis” strategies in crunch time, disrupting team rhythm and putting undue pressure on others to compensate during high-stakes moments. These factors create a roster-building puzzle, as analyses note how his approach maximises his own impact but can stifle team dynamics, making it tough for non-specialised players to fit seamlessly and often leading to frustrations in playoff scenarios where adaptability is key. You can’t blame it all on Doc Rivers!
As fans, we love bold predictions, but smart analysis demands balance. The Bucks could contend, but they’re not locks for the top. Keep an eye on training camp reports and early games— that’s where the real story unfolds. Check them when the going gets tough, in clutch, against better teams.
Over the last regular season, Milwaukee frequently began the final period with Giannis on the bench due to rotation planning under Coach Doc Rivers. During these stretches, the Bucks’ offense has shown surprising efficiency, posting positive net ratings and often building or maintaining leads before Giannis returns. Observers have noticed that lineups featuring Damian Lillard, or in the past Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez allow for more spacing and ball movement, as the team often leans into a pick-and-roll-heavy approach and quick perimeter offence.
Midway through the fourth, Giannis is typically reintroduced, intended to stabilize and close out tight games. However, this move sometimes coincides with a downturn in offensive momentum:
Teams adjust their coverage, intensity increases, and Milwaukee sometimes struggles with late-game execution and turnovers. Giannis doesn’t adapt. He can’t.
In the February 20th game against the Clippers, for example, Milwaukee surged in the early fourth quarter while Giannis was under a minutes restriction. The supporting cast led a rally that was only challenged once Giannis returned, with the Clippers mounting a comeback. Similar patterns have been documented on Bucks fan forums, sparking debate about substitution timing and the best offensive approach in high-stakes moments.
Statistically, Milwaukee’s net rating overall is higher with Giannis on the floor, but the nuance of fourth-quarter substitution patterns paints a more complex picture. These situational surges reflect not a flaw in Giannis, but the multifaceted nature of NBA lineup chemistry:
While the Bucks are generally stronger with Giannis, the fourth quarter “surge-then-slowdown” phenomenon is real and supported by both game logs and widespread fan observation. This nuance should inform future coaching decisions, with a blend of non-Giannis lineups and better-utilized closing rotations potentially unlocking Milwaukee’s explosive late-game potential.
By understanding why and how these patterns emerge, fans and analysts gain a richer picture of the Bucks’ crunch time identity in a season defined by fascinating ups and downs.Recent Bucks seasons have featured a surprising trend: Milwaukee often performs better during the opening minutes of the fourth quarter when Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the bench, only to see momentum shift after he returns. This phenomenon, widely discussed in fan forums and supported by select game logs, raises questions about rotation strategy, offensive chemistry, and Milwaukee’s best crunch-time approach.
Doc Rivers’ substitution patterns often have Giannis resting to start the fourth quarter. During these minutes, the Bucks’ lineup—with Lillard, Middleton, Lopez, and agile reserves—tends to play faster, lean into high-volume three-point shooting, and show improved ball movement. Their defensive rebounding also stabilizes, fueling quick transition buckets. Multiple times last season, these lineups outperformed the opposition, either growing leads or closing deficits.
As Giannis checks in midway through the fourth, a pattern emerges: opposing teams often ramp up scoring and Milwaukee’s offensive flow can stall. With Giannis on the floor, defenses collapse into the paint, sometimes bogging down the Bucks’ spacing and making ball movement more predictable. Whether the issue is increased defensive attention, fatigue, or sluggish rotations, the Bucks’ net rating tends to stall or even decline during these minutes. Games such as the February 20th win over the Clippers exemplify this—Milwaukee’s best fourth-quarter surge came while Giannis was resting, and the lead diminished after his return.
Fan frustration over Doc Rivers’ rotation decisions became a consistent storyline. Many Bucks followers pointed out that Milwaukee’s quick ball movement and balanced scoring work optimally when Giannis is off the floor, while reintroducing him late can slow the offense and invite comeback runs from opponents. Whether the cause is substitution rhythm, defensive adjustment, or playcalling, the fourth-quarter splits remain a major point of discussion.
While overall net ratings heavily favour Giannis’ presence across the season, these fourth-quarter bursts—when the game is fast and Giannis is off the floor—reveal the complexity of crunch-time basketball. The Bucks are not truly “better” overall without Giannis, but they do have specialised situations where secondary lineups generate unique advantages, and understanding these moments could help the team optimise future closing rotations. Giannis is not known for his basketball IQ nor for quick thinking in clutch situations. He often makes mistakes, turnovers and he can’t screen to save his life. Let him play his heart out in the easier games and easier situations.
This recurring fourth-quarter story is more than just anecdotal: it’s a tactical subplot that continues to shape Milwaukee’s late-game identity. By learning from these patterns, the Bucks could unlock even greater closing efficiency—combining Giannis’s strengths with lineups that maximise ball movement and outside shooting in the game’s most pivotal moments. But it is safe to say they can keep him on the bench longer. It would be great if they could copy what coach Spanoulis did with him in the Greek National team but truth be told it would not work with the much higher level of play in the NBA where more players can shut down Giannis effectively on their own.