Giannis Antetokounmpo sent waves through the NBA world when he cast doubt on his future with the Milwaukee Bucks. He expressed his desire to win a championship title on multiple occasions, and his future with the Bucks depends on whether they can build a title-contender team around him. He has made it clear that he will not sign an extension unless the whole team is on the same page: winning a ring. However, an X-factor that can impact the Greek Freak’s decision is Jrue Holiday’s future.

The veteran point guard is eligible for an extension later this year. He inked a four-year, $134-million deal in 2021 that will keep him in the Bucks until 2025. However, he holds a $37.3 million player option after the 2023-2024 season. That means Holiday can test free agency as early as summer next year.

Jrue Holiday holds the key to Milwaukee?s future

Jrue Holiday is one of the best two players in the team. With 14 seasons under his belt, Holiday is still playing at a high level. Last season, he averaged 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. However, his most valuable asset is his defensive proficiency.

On NBA Today, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne pointed out, “What happens with Jrue Holiday’s extension greatly affects what happens with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s decision about whether he stays in Milwaukee and whether he wants to do that this summer. So, Jrue Holiday is the bellwether. … What happens with the Jrue Holiday situation this spring and this summer is a bellwether for what happens for Giannis.”

Last season, Holiday played an important role as Giannis’ wingman in the absence of Middleton. As a result, Holiday’s decision could be pivotal in determining the Greek phenom’s future with the Bucks. The All-Star forward wants to be in a team that can contend for the title.

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If the Bucks decide to resign Holiday, they will be proving that they are serious about contending.

Giannis Antetokounmpo makes a public statement amid exit rumors

The 7-time NBA All-Star has left the Bucks front office alarmed with his recent statements. However, he also gave a major scare when he suffered a lower back injury during the first game of the postseason.

His condition left the Bucks fans worried. However, he recently took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to inform that he is doing well with a hilarious caption. He wrote, “Man I can still dunk!! We gonna be good.”

In addition to reassuring his followers, the tweet also reaffirmed his desire to take home a championship ring in the upcoming campaign.

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The Bucks have kept their core intact by re-signing?Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez. So, it would be a huge shocker if they let go of Jrue Holiday. What do you think of Giannis’ future with the Milwaukee Bucks?