Giannis Antetokounmpo’s comments on getting traded leave fans in splits - “Bro just invented a new way to request a trade”

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks haven't gone past the first round of the postseason in two years. The Bucks, the No. 3-seeded team in the playoffs last season, went down in six games to the sixth-ranked Indiana Pacers. Antetokounmpo watched helplessly from the sidelines after suffering a calf injury three games before the end of the regular season.

This season, the Bucks’ expensive roster is expected to challenge for the title if healthy, and Antetokounmpo is aware of the pressure and expectations. He told Sam Amick of “The Athletic” that he could be traded if the Bucks don’t win the championship.

Basketball fans on X, formerly Twitter, reacted to Antetokounmpo’s comments:

“Bro just invented a new way to request a trade”

One fan predicted:

“He wants to be a Laker”

Another said:

“Making them think it’s their idea lolll”

Lakersrekal commented:

“Bro is BEGGING to be free of Doc Rivers and Darvin Ham”

Mo3Muse interpreted Antetokounmpo’s response:

“shi means if yall don't help me win f**k yall ni**as”

The “Greek Freak” signed a three-year contract extension in October 2023 that included a $62.7 million player option before the 2027-28 season. If the Bucks fail to win the championship, they will likely revamp their aging roster but keep their franchise cornerstone.

Antetokounmpo, 29, is in the prime of his career, so it will be a surprise if the Milwaukee Bucks trade him if they fail to win the 2024-25 championship.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo’s health is crucial to the Bucks’ championship aspirations

In the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs, Giannis Antetokounmpo injured his back in Game 1 against the Miami Heat. He played only 11 minutes and missed Games 2 and 3. The “Greek Freak” returned, but the top-ranked Bucks fell to the No. 8-seeded Miami Heat.

Last season, Antetokounmpo couldn’t suit up for any playoff game due to a calf injury. Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton gallantly tried to carry the team but failed. “Dame Time” also played through injury and missed Games 4 and 5.

The Milwaukee Bucks are legitimate championship contenders if their core can stay healthy. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a proven winner who could lead his team to the top of the NBA again.