Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Absence Leaves Bucks in a Bind
The Milwaukee Bucks are feeling the absence of star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo more than ever. Since he suffered a low-grade left adductor strain on November 17 during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team has struggled mightily, going 0-3 in his absence. As they prepared to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday, it became glaringly clear that the Bucks are missing the offensive dynamism that only Antetokounmpo can provide.
The Need for a Playmaker
The combined absence of Antetokounmpo and point guard Kevin Porter only amplifies the team’s urgent need for a reliable playmaker. While fourth-year guard Ryan Rollins has stepped up and produced some of his best performances, he has yet to effectively compensate for the offensive void left by the two stars. According to analytics from Cleaning the Glass, the Bucks boasted a formidable 125.2 offensive rating when Antetokounmpo was on the floor, placing them in the 95th percentile among all NBA lineups. However, that number plummets to a mere 104.2—falling to the 4th percentile—when he is off the court.
Implications for Trade Strategy
The Bucks’ offensive struggles, combined with offseason uncertainties surrounding Antetokounmpo’s long-term commitment to the franchise, raise critical questions about their strategy as the trade deadline approaches. Antetokounmpo has expressed his desire to spend his prime years competing for championships, and this current roster may only be one impactful playmaker away from becoming a serious contender.
Porter, who had been named the starting point guard before his right knee injury sidelined him just nine minutes into the season opener, could be that much-needed spark. Expected to return in early December, his presence could significantly enhance the Bucks’ offensive capabilities when Antetokounmpo is resting.
Porter’s Impact and Future Decisions
While Rollins has made a compelling case to keep the starting point guard position, Porter’s return could stabilize the lineup and keep the team competitive during crucial stretches. However, should the Bucks look to the trade market for immediate help, they might face challenges. ESPN’s Bobby Marks outlined the Bucks’ precarious financial situation, stating, “The Bucks have only one first-rounder to trade (either in 2031 or 2032), no seconds, and would be challenged to cobble together enough salary to send out.”
Despite having three players—Turner, Kyle Kuzma, and Bobby Portis—who collectively earn around $61 million, the Bucks also have nine players with salaries ranging from $2.2 million to $5.1 million, complicating any potential trades. Moreover, due to a high roster turnover this summer, nine of those players won’t be eligible to be moved until December 15.
Looking Ahead
As the Bucks navigate these turbulent waters, the organization will likely keep a close eye on Porter’s reintegration into the lineup. His successful return could provide the offensive boost the team desperately needs without sacrificing future assets. The Bucks are at a crossroads; the decisions made in the coming weeks could define their season and shape the franchise for years to come.
