NBA Playoffs: Milwaukee Bucks’ woes deepen as Giannis’ future hangs in balance

The Milwaukee Bucks, two-time defending champions, find themselves in a precarious position once again, following their elimination by the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the NBA playoffs for the second consecutive year.

Bucks’ playoff hopes dwindle after Pacers elimination

The Bucks’ lackluster performance has raised questions about the team’s trajectory, particularly with superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard on their roster.

“When you have two superstars and can’t make it past the first round, something is not working as it should.”

– NBA Analyst

The Bucks won the championship in 2021 but have only reached the conference semifinals since then. Injuries, including those to Giannis and the Wanamaker Trade—the worst holder in the playoffs—have hindered their progression.

Lillard’s injury adds to Bucks’ woes

Initially acquired to provide a spark, Lillard suffered a severe injury in the fourth game of the series, breaking his Achilles tendon.

Damian Lillard #6 of the Milwaukee Bucks disputes the ball against the Indiana Pacers during Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum on April 27, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Getty Images)

With Lillard set to turn 35 in July, questions surround his ability to recover and maintain his form. His contract, stipulating a $54.1 million salary next season and $58.5 million the following year, presents further complications.

The potential Giannis conundrum

With little room to maneuver due to financial commitments and restricted draft picks, the Bucks may be forced to consider a painful decision—saying goodbye to their star player, Giannis.

Giannis has two more years on his contract, with a third-year player option. The Bucks could trade him before the February 2027 deadline to secure maximum value. However, enduring another year and half of mediocrity might not be feasible.

“Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on during Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum on April 27, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Giannis’ potential departure

Putting Giannis on the market would generate substantial interest, with teams like the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder, among others, vying for his services. While this would provide the Bucks with valuable assets, it would also mark the end of one of basketball’s most prolific duos.

Looking ahead

With the Bucks facing a challenging road to recovery, fans can only hope for a return to glory—though the team’s future seems uncertain at best.

Is Giannis’ departure the best solution for the Bucks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!