Undoubtedly, the Milwaukee Bucks have had the worst start to the 2024/25 season. Down 1-6, they stand on the lowest step of the Eastern Conference on the points table. This is surely not the most favorable scenario for the 2021 NBA champs. However, there’s more trouble brewing within the squad. As you know, the Bucks and their world revolves around the ‘Greek Freak’ Giannis Antetokounmpo. But given the current circumstances, there might be a possibility that the 2x MVP will be a big trade target soon.

Rumors suggest some of the biggest teams would go into bidding wars for Giannis Antetokounmpo. But, ex-NBA Champ Kendrick Perkins has a complaint. Well, not just Big Perk, but ESPN veterans Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe have a say in this. The former Celt sharply reported: “Look, Giannis is the one that made this bed. He’s the one that got to lay in it.” Previously, Smith had pointed out that Antetokounmpo must have been consulted before firing Adrian Griffin from the HC’s post. In reality, replacing Griffin with Doc Rivers was the Greek’s brainchild, according to the senior NBA analyst. 

But taking the bitter stance, a step further, and calling out the Bucks franchise as well, Big Perk had a lot to say. “Mike Budenholzer got fired as well, a guy that they won a championship with. And then all of a sudden you fire Adrian Griffin.” He added: “Giannis forced the hand to trade for Damian Lillard and got Jrue Holiday out of there.” Does Giannis Antetokounmpo have ‘blood’ on his hands? Asked the ex-NBA star.

“Absolutely. All over this. So, you gotta stick it out. You gotta ride it out. This is what you wanted, Giannis!” 

Moreover, the chemistry between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard has always been a debatable topic. Big Perk says there’s none to begin with! Dame has mentioned, time and again, how lonely he felt being away from his family. But, the Greek forward never attempted as a franchise player and leader to reach out to his teammate and create the chemistry to play the two-man game, the analyst reminisced.

Meanwhile, the Bucks front office has been haywire with alleged wrong calls with trading and roster duties. Unlike the Knicks or the 76ers who made “powerful moves” and not “popular moves” like picking Karl-Anthony Towns and Paul George respectively, the Bucks failed to do something of that sort.

Instead, they believed in Giannis Antetokounmpo’s leadership, which now stands on shaky grounds, and picked names like Gary Trent Jr. Not the smartest decision, as per Big Perk on First Take. Moreover, was there a need to keep Khris Middleton despite knowing he would have two surgeries this off-season? No.

Shannon Sharpe’s sharp take on Giannis Antetokounmpo amidst trading rumors

“Every coach is there because of Giannis’ blessings,” taunted Shannon Sharpe. He says Antetokounmpo plays an influential role in such major decisions. “Wanted to move on from J Kidd and got Mike Budenholzer. Mike Budenholzer wins a championship, couple of years later they struggled losing the first round. He wanted a different head coach.” Sharpe then added: “[Giannis Antetokounmpo] wanted a superstar but in the process of getting that superstar in Dame Lillard, you weakened your team.” Well, it’s not hard to guess, the Greek Freak is under fire for his alleged involvement in the team’s decision-making.

Meanwhile, three prominent names are coming up as Giannis Antetokounmpo’s next stop if he leaves the Milwaukee Bucks next season. A certain executive has come ahead to give out some information. He named the Heat, Nets, Rockets, and Clippers as top contenders.

The Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers are unlikely destinations for Giannis Antetokounmpo if he seeks a trade. Both teams lack the star power and depth needed to make a serious title run, making them less appealing options for a player in his prime with an ambition to win an NBA ring.

Only the Houston Rockets appear capable of landing Giannis Antetokounmpo without gutting their roster. They have young players and draft picks to make a strong offer, making them a top contender for him.

The Milwaukee Bucks’ struggles have put Giannis Antetokounmpo in the spotlight, sparking heated opinions and trade rumors. With his influence over coaching and roster choices under fire, the talisman faces mounting pressure to lead or leave. Teams like the Rockets could be strong suitors. Giannis’ next steps may reshape his legacy and the Bucks’ future. The league watches, eager to see if he stays to fight or chooses a new path to glory.