MILWAUKEE — Giannis Antetokounmpo took some time this summer to express his awareness of the NBA’s perception of his Milwaukee Bucks, amidst a busy schedule that included getting married and competing in the Olympics. In a notable social media post, he questioned the lack of a Christmas Day game for the Bucks, accompanying his comments with two emojis representing laughing and crying faces. This moment reflects the ongoing narrative of disrespect the team seems to be facing, especially following their exit in the first round of the playoffs for the past two years.
Despite being the 2021 champions, the Bucks were notably absent from the NBA’s five-game Christmas Day lineup, and they ranked fifth in an NBA.com survey where general managers were asked to identify the top four teams in the Eastern Conference. Bobby Portis, a forward for the team, echoed this sentiment, expressing frustration that conversations around championship contenders largely exclude the Bucks.
Recent discussions around the Bucks have been laden with scrutiny, particularly during a tumultuous previous season. The team made headlines for bringing in seven-time All-NBA guard Damian Lillard just before training camp, amid the firing of Adrian Griffin after just 43 games, who was subsequently replaced by Doc Rivers. Notably, for a stretch of the season, key players including Antetokounmpo, three-time All-Star Khris Middleton, and Lillard were available together for just five out of the final 39 games, highlighting a challenging period for team cohesion.
The Bucks are optimistic that with the new season, increased stability will translate to greater success. Antetokounmpo emphasized the advantage of having had time to build a rapport with Lillard and the coaching staff. He believes their experience from the previous season will contribute positively as they aim to improve.
Lillard, having spent last offseason uncertain about his future after requesting a trade from Portland, is prepared for this season, confident that he will show his true potential. He remarked on the familiarity developed over the summer, stating that the group has faced struggles together, making them stronger and more connected as they step into the new season.
Doc Rivers has drawn comparisons between this Bucks roster and his previous championship-winning teams, notably the Boston Celtics of 2008. He remarked that the blend of seasoned veterans with younger players resembles his earlier successful squads.
Unlike last offseason, when several significant changes occurred, the Bucks have maintained a core group of players this year. They aim to fill the gap left by Malik Beasley’s departure to the Detroit Pistons after starting 77 games, having added veterans Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright while letting go of Jae Crowder and Patrick Beverley. Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Giannis’ brother, is also absent as he recovers from an Achilles injury.
Team dynamics appear positive, according to Portis, who noted that the atmosphere within the squad feels better than it has in years, especially after their training camp moved to Irvine, California, to enhance team bonding.
However, for all their plans, the Bucks face the immediate challenge of maintaining player health. Injuries have plagued the team recently. Middleton missed significant playoff time in 2022 due to a knee injury, Antetokounmpo battled back issues in the first round of the 2023 playoffs, and he was sidelined entirely in 2022 against Indiana due to a calf strain.
The roster’s age may complicate efforts to avoid injuries, with three key players, including Middleton (33), Lillard (34), and center Brook Lopez (36), all over the age of 33. Antetokounmpo, approaching his 30th birthday, is known for his aggressive playing style, which also poses injury risks.
Last season, the Bucks often excelled when their core players played together. Should they overcome the challenges of injuries and foster strong chemistry, they could once again position themselves as serious contenders for the title. Rivers emphasized the importance of timing for a team’s success and expressed confidence that this experienced group recognizes the moment is now or potentially never again.