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Jamal Collier
MILWAUKEE — Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo stated he is «locked in» on regaining his health and informed reporters on Thursday afternoon that he cannot dictate narratives about his future with the Bucks.
«If my agent is in discussions with the Bucks regarding it, he’s his own individual. He can engage in any dialogue he pleases,» Antetokounmpo told the media before Thursday’s match against the Toronto Raptors.
«Ultimately, I have not personally conversed with the Bucks. I’m still focused, focused on my teammates, and most importantly focused on my return to health.»
Thursday marked the first occasion Antetokounmpo, who has been out of action since Dec. 3 due to a right calf strain, addressed an ESPN article from that very day stating he is considering his future with the Bucks. Sources informed ESPN’s Shams Charania that Antetokounmpo and his agent are contemplating whether his optimal placement is in Milwaukee or another location.
Antetokounmpo largely evaded inquiries regarding those interests, underscoring that the Bucks began the day ranked 11th in the Eastern Conference with an 11-16 record, and he expressed no concern over how reports about his future might impact his teammates.
«It doesn’t influence my performance,» Antetokounmpo remarked. «It doesn’t alter my bond with my teammates, nor does it affect my connection with my coach. It doesn’t bother me since they understand what I’m about…currently, we must not be preoccupied with the [reports].
«Discussions on [reports] and headlines are irrelevant; in the end, we’re fighting for our lives. We need to win a game.»
Antetokounmpo mentioned he did not require a meeting with the entire squad to address the speculations about his future, yet he indicated that some teammates have individually approached him.
«I believe they grasp the situation, but urgency must be instilled within the team,» he stated. «Guys, this is serious…we need to turn this around. Time is on our side, yet we must demonstrate increased urgency.
«I’ve conversed with the coach regarding this. I’ve held discussions with individual players about it. Teammates have approached me concerning the [reports] because it might influence their lives and careers, and I’m straightforward with them, regardless of the answer.»
Milwaukee has recorded a 1-3 record without Antetokounmpo since his latest injury, which had an initial recovery estimate of 2-4 weeks. However, coach Doc Rivers mentioned earlier this week that Antetokounmpo has not made significant advancements beyond individual training on the court and is not close to making a return. Following Thursday’s home encounter, the Bucks will embark on a five-game road trip.
Despite the Bucks’ decline in the standings, Antetokounmpo and the management have agreed he will take the necessary time to ensure a complete recovery. He acknowledged on Thursday that he believes hastily returning from the groin injury he incurred in November contributed to the calf injury.
«As a leader of this squad, when we are competing you feel that if you are not on the court aiding your team, you aren’t providing them the best opportunity,» Antetokounmpo expressed. «You somewhat feel responsible. Instead of allowing ample recovery time, you impulsively rush back.»
