Giannis Antetokounmpo Expected To Leave Bucks

Merlin sees the saga continuing. Despite the Bucks holding Giannis at the trade deadline, Jake Fischer says "four sources close to the situation" still expect a move to a true title contender, with the Lakers, Nets, Heat, Spurs and Rockets emerging as possible destinations. Fischer adds the Bucks "did entertain and discuss Giannis trade frameworks like never before" in the final week, even as one exec claimed they "were never serious." Giannis told ESPN, "As of today, I'm committed to the Milwaukee Bucks," but whispers of a summer shift grow louder. Merlin senses a chess match ahead. Teams with cap space and draft capital will scheme to build around Giannis if Milwaukee seeks a maximal return. If ring pursuit drives the decision, expect aggressive offers and roster rearrangements. The next act will be played in summer negotiations and the playoffs that follow.