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.”
Framing Himself as the Lone Hero
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.”
The Impact on Team Chemistry
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.
Hypocrisy and Selective Memory
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 is a hypocrite
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.
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: Lakers’ New Wizard Wows in Hollywood
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: Ant-Man’s Explosive Start
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 Alien’s Sophomore Surge
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: Philly’s Speedy Scoring Sensation
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.
Alperen Şengün: Houston’s Triple-Double Titan
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.
A Season Already Ablaze
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.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Not Eclipsing
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.
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?
The Foundation of Giannis’ Dominance
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.
The Limitations of a One-Dimensional Approach
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.
1. Lack of a Consistent Jump Shot
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.
2. Limited Post Moves
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.
3. Playmaking and Decision-Making
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.
4. Free-Throw Shooting Woes
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.
Playoff Struggles: When Size Isn’t Enough
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?
The Path Forward: Developing a More Complete Game
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:
Developing a Reliable Jump Shot: Giannis doesn’t need to become a 40% three-point shooter, but improving his mid-range and three-point shooting to league-average levels (around 35%) would force defenders to guard him more closely, opening up driving lanes and creating space for teammates. Working with a shooting coach to refine his mechanics—particularly his release point and consistency—could yield significant dividends.
Expanding His Post Game: Adding finesse moves like fadeaways, hook shots, or up-and-under fakes would make Giannis more unpredictable in the post. Studying footage of players like Hakeem or Dirk Nowitzki could help him develop a more versatile scoring arsenal, reducing his reliance on brute force.
Improving Playmaking: Giannis could benefit from studying how players like Jokić or Draymond Green read defenses and make precise passes. Enhancing his ability to manipulate defenses with hesitation moves or pick-and-roll play would make him a more complete offensive hub.
Fixing Free-Throw Shooting: Simplifying his free-throw routine and building confidence at the line through repetition could push his percentage into the 75-80% range. This would not only boost his scoring but also make him a more reliable closer in tight games.
Adapting to Defensive Schemes: Giannis could work on recognizing and countering defensive strategies like zones or walls. Quick decision-making, such as passing out of double-teams or using pump fakes to draw fouls, would make him harder to game-plan against.
The Bigger Picture: Longevity and Legacy
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 Style: Passion or Pressure?
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.
Team Cohesion: The Bucks’ Achilles’ Heel?
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.
The Playoff Pressure Cooker
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.
Can Giannis Lead Milwaukee to Another Title?
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.
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.
1. Overreliance on Free Throws: Volume Over Efficiency
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.
2. Limited Shooting Range: Great at the Rim, But That’s It
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.
3. Efficiency Metrics Don’t Stack Up to Peers
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.
4. Playoff Drops: Regular-Season Hero, Postseason Question Marks
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.
5. Contextual Factors: Games Played and Team Support
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.
Impressive, But Not Untouchable
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.)
A Proven Championship Pedigree
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.
Versatile Skill Set That Fits Any System
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.
Navigating Recent Challenges: Injuries and Context
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.
Ideal Fits for Contending Teams
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.
The Bottom Line: Undervalued Asset with Upside
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.
The Bucks’ Curious Prioritization: Family Over Firepower?
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.
Why Russell Westbrook Would Have Been a Game-Changer for the Bucks
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:
1. Elite Playmaking and Bench Leadership
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.”
2. Rebounding and Defensive Intensity
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.
3. Veteran Mentorship and Locker-Room Presence
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.
4. Fit in the System and Low-Risk Addition
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.”
A Championship Window Squandered?
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.
Player Profile and Physical Attributes
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.
Strengths
Athleticism and Length: Alex’s physical attributes—elite length, solid leaping ability, and good size for a wing—make him a versatile defender and potential transition weapon.
Energy and Hustle: He plays with effort, often making positive hustle plays, chasing rebounds, and disrupting passing lanes with deflections.
Open Floor Play: He’s particularly effective in transition and filling lanes for fast breaks, running the floor well and drawing fouls.
Passing Vision and Rebounding: Alex has shown flashes as a ballhandler with decent passing instincts, and he’s a strong offensive rebounder for his position.
Weaknesses
Raw Skillset: While his athleticism is undeniable, Alex is regarded as a raw prospect. He does several things at a decent level but doesn’t yet excel in any specific area.
Shooting Consistency: His shooting mechanics and shot selection are inconsistent, resulting in below-average percentages, especially from three-point range. His feet orientation and repetitive shooting form need significant work.
Ball Handling: He remains turnover-prone, with loose ball-handling, especially under pressure or when forced to use his left hand.
Decision Making: Tends to make questionable decisions with the ball, telegraphing passes or choosing poor moments for aggressive plays.
Defensive Awareness: Despite physical tools, he sometimes struggles with defensive rotations, help defense, and maintaining focus.
Statistical Snapshot (G League Averages):
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
NBA Potential
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.
Nepotism and Its Impact on the Bucks
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.
Limited Roster Spots: Two-way and end-of-bench positions are valuable for developing young talent. Allocating these to family members primarily for off-court harmony or star retention can stunt the growth of other prospects.
Locker Room Dynamics: Nepotism may strain relationships if players feel roles aren’t earned, potentially affecting locker room morale and on-court chemistry.
Team Performance: While strengthening Giannis’s ties to Milwaukee may have intangible benefits, it can impair overall competitiveness if the roster isn’t built purely on merit.youtube
So what’s the point?
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.
Struggles at the Charity Stripe and Beyond: The Shooting Woes
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.
The Art of the Pick: Why Giannis Can’t Set Effective Screens
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
Defensive Reactions: Elite Talent with Occasional Lapses
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.
Passing and Decision-Making: The Half-Court Hurdles
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.
Ball-Handling, Counter Moves, and Other Bad Habits
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.
The Cost of a Late Bloom and Paths Forward
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.
The Screening Issue: Giannis’s Weakness Undermines Curry’s Greatest Strength
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.
Ball Dominance: Giannis’s Hogging Habits Would Starve Curry’s Off-Ball Brilliance
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.
Clutch-Time Reliability: Giannis Falters When It Matters Most
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.
The Core Problem: Giannis’s Basketball IQ and Reaction Speed Don’t Fit Advanced Schemes
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.
A Superteam That Sounds Better Than It Plays
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.
The Bucks’ Investment in an Unknown Prospect
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.
All-In Moves: Trades, Contracts, and Coaching Changes
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.
Injuries, Not Incompetence: The Real Culprit Behind Recent Struggles
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.
The Entitlement Factor: Forgetting Roots and Undermining Loyalty
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.
Time for Gratitude, Not Exit Threats
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’s Contract: A Timeline of Security and Flexibility
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:
2025-26: $54.1 million (guaranteed).
2026-27: $58.5 million (guaranteed).
2027-28: $62.8 million (player option).
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.
NBA Rules on Player Options and Free Agency: The Bucks’ Hands Are Tied
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.
Why Now? The Bucks’ Window Closing and Giannis’s Leverage
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.
The Bottom Line: Player Power in the Modern NBA
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.
The NBA landscape is buzzing with excitement over Victor Wembanyama, the French phenom touted as a generational talent. With his unique blend of size, agility, and shooting touch, Wembanyama has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats, including Giannis Antetokounmpo. But is the hype justified? And has Wembanyama already surpassed Giannis as the league’s most dominant force?
Wembanyama’s Unique Skillset
Wembanyama’s physical attributes are simply astounding. Standing at 7’4″ with an 8-foot wingspan, he possesses the size of a traditional center. However, his game is anything but traditional. Wembanyama moves with the fluidity of a guard, showcasing remarkable ball-handling skills and a smooth shooting stroke from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down three-pointers makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.
Defensively, Wembanyama is a force to be reckoned with. His length and athleticism allow him to protect the rim and disrupt shots with ease. He’s also quick enough to switch onto smaller players and defend them on the perimeter. Wembanyama’s defensive potential is truly sky-high. We saw him swat Giannis in a few minutes just now. And he didn’t even need to jump! He also has an actual dribble, basketball IQ, fast responses, great court vision and flexibility.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been a dominant player for the past few years in the regular season but has none of these skills. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism is a reliable point getter because he always tries so hard. Giannis’ ability to drive to the basket and finish with power is unstoppable by defences not willing to try harder and risk injury in the regular season so he often gets away with it. He’s also a two-time MVP and a Defensive Player of the Year, proving his all-around impact on the game. But that was then. Since his MVP and DPOY years his stats have been falling. All he seems to care about is points now, basically at the rim so he can also talk about fg%.
Has Wembanyama passed Giannis?
While Wembanyama’s potential is undeniable, it’s still early to crown him as the next NBA dominator. However, Wembanyama possesses a unique skillset that could make him much more dominant than Giannis in the long run. His ability to stretch the floor and shoot from the perimeter adds a new dimension to his offensive game. If Wembanyama can develop his all-around game and stay healthy, he has the potential to become the NBA’s next superstar. He seems to be taking his time and has much better awareness of his body. More importantly he seems to understand that some things, like building a winning team, take time. Every step he makes shows intelligence and forethought as opposed to the…bulldozer approach by Giannis in his decade at the NBA. I also consider it important that Wemby is , well, normal, he socialises with other players and people, he is willing to listen and learn.
The Future of the NBA
The NBA is in good hands with young talents like Wembanyama and Giannis leading the way. Their battles on the court won’t be must-see TV for much longer. I would say it’s already over but we all know Giannis is like a dog with a bone and will keep trying like a maniac to prove us all wrong.
