Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks have been the talk of the town. Both parties have issued opposing stories about the health and availability of the Greek Freak. According to Antetokounmpo, he believes that the Bucks are holding him back, preventing him from returning to action before the 2025-26 NBA season ends.
The NBA star has suffered a left knee hyperextension and a bone bruise, missing 12 straight games. The Bucks, however, claim that Antetokounmpo isn't healthy enough to return. ESPN's Shams Charania also reported that the team doesn't think the one-time champion wants to play. The conflicting stories from both sides led to a league investigation.
Bucks' Jon Horst Comments on Giannis Antetokounmpo's Future
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Many fans think that there's a chance Antetokounmpo could leave the franchise, amid all the drama. However, Bucks general manager Jon Horst, who went on the record for the first time since September, believes they can salvage the relationship.
Horst was asked by Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel if there's a chance the Bucks can keep Antetokounmpo during the offseason. He said this:
“I do, yeah. Absolutely. And not only just from my perspective, but I also believe from Giannis’ mindset and his perspective. Whether we need ‘couples therapy’ or whatever, the assets will still be there.”
Amid the situation, there has been plenty of speculation about what the future holds for Antetokounmpo. There have been discussions about possible deals that might take place throughout the summer. It all stems from what the truth is about the NBA star's injury, which Horst also discussed.
According to the executive, the team is still monitoring Antetokounmpo, and they will continue to evaluate him.
“He’s not cleared to play yet in a game and we’re going to continue to evaluate it,” Horst said. “I don’t know what the outcome in that world will be, but the only lens has been to make our best professional judgment for him and for us.”
Horst clarified that the team's decision not to play Antetokounmpo has nothing to do with draft positioning.
Due to several injuries, the Greek Freak has only played in 36 games this season. Antetokounmpo also missed the NBA All-Star Game in February because of a left calf strain. The 10-time All-Star expressed his determination to return over the weekend when he spoke to the media.
There were also reports that the Bucks wanted to shut Antetokounmpo down for the remainder of the season. However, the 31-year-old star has refused to do that.
