Giannis Antetokounmpo's former teammate 'not shocked' Bucks star might want trade

Jeremy Beren

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Giannis Antetokounmpo's former teammate 'not shocked' Bucks star might want trade image

Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

The future of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee has been under scrutiny for some time. But fresh gasoline has been poured on the fire amid a new report from ESPN's Shams Charania about the Greek Freak's long-term plans.

Antetokounmpo and his agent Alex Saratsis are set for serious conversations about the nine-time All-NBA selection's place in Milwaukee. Antetokounmpo has spent his entire 13-year career with the Bucks, and one of his former teammates isn't surprised at how everything is unfolding.

DeMarcus Cousins, who was Antetokounmpo's teammate during the 2021-22 NBA season, has said that this isn't a "healthy situation" in Milwaukee. He explained to Michelle Beadle on "Run It Back" that the Bucks and their longtime star "just aren't on the same page" in terms of competing for championships following their 2021 success.

The Bucks demonstrated some moxie -- and potential -- by rallying from an 18-point deficit to knock off the East-leading Detroit Pistons, 113-109, on Wednesday night. It was especially noteworthy that Milwaukee pulled off the comeback with Antetokounmpo leaving the game early with an injury.

But the fact is Milwaukee is 10th in the East with a 10-13 record, in a virtual tie with the Chicago Bulls for the final Play-in Tournament spot. And Cousins is already taking it for granted that a separation will occur in 2026.

"I don't think this will be a messy breakup," Cousins said. "I think both sides have a strong respect for one another, with everything they've been through. The fact that (the Bucks) are willing to help him go exactly where he wants to go, that's a great sign of respect."

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