Giannis Antetokounmpo Discloses Tough Sacrifices Made for Damian Lillard to Bolster Bucks Stint: “Cannot Just Have the Whole Stage”

Fans of the Milwaukee Bucks have endured a strange 2023-24 season. Despite the Bucks’ consistent presence among the top spots in the Eastern Conference, they have lacked the dominant flair typically associated with title contenders. Milwaukee’s lackluster defensive performances under HC Adrian Griffin didn’t instill much confidence in the team. Subsequently, the Bucks hierarchy decided to part ways with Griffin and hire highly experienced Doc Rivers as the head coach.

However, the situation hasn’t improved since Doc Rivers took over as head coach, with the Bucks losing 7 out of their last 10 games under his tenure. They currently occupy the 3rd spot in the Eastern Conference standings, with 35 wins from 56 games. The new look Bucks have struggled to form a cohesive unit, with Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo still figuring out ball-handling duties.

In a recent interview with Forbes Sports, Giannis shared details about the adjustments he has had to make due to the inclusion of Dame on the roster. He said, “I’ve never played with a superstar like Dame before. This is my first time. When he’s on the court, you cannot just have the whole stage. You got to share it. He’s going to take a lot of shots and I had to figure out how to play within that. This year, I’ve tried to be more efficient with the shots I’m getting.”

Despite the strong individual performances from both Dame and Giannis, the Bucks have struggled to replicate their form from the 2021 playoffs, where they clinched their first NBA title in 50 years. With an equally adept roster, could the Bucks be a threat in the postseason?

Are the Milwaukee Bucks legitimate title contenders?

Before the start of the season, fans of the Bucks had high hopes of winning their second title in four seasons. However, subpar performances have reduced those lofty preseason expectations. They have especially struggled on the defensive end. The Bucks’ perimeter defense has suffered significantly due to the departure of Jrue Holiday and the high-profile acquisition of Damian Lillard.

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Jrue Holiday is considered as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. Whereas, Dame isn’t nearly adept enough on the defensive end of the floor. They currently possess the 14th worst defense in the league, with a defensive rating of 116.6. While the trade deadline addition of Patrick Beverley would certainly help in this aspect, his acquisition isn’t a game changer for the Bucks. With the season at a crucial juncture, Doc Rivers and the Bucks have very little time to figure things out. At the moment, the Bucks look miles off from winning the 2024 NBA championship. What are your thoughts? Can the Bucks win it all this season? Let us know in the comments below!