Knee-Jerk Reactions: Bucks’ Brandon Jennings to Look at Markets Bigger than Milwaukee

Brandon Jennings could bolt from Milwaukee. (Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE)

And there it is. Everyone had to know that Jennings is an emotional kid who was going to come out with an equally emotional reaction to not making the All-Star team.  He dedicated himself to improving over the off-season, came through with an uptick in his results, but fell just short on his All-Star campaign.

Now, in a recent e-mail interview with ESPN.com, he dropped the L-bomb.  As in leaving.

“I am going to keep my options open, knowing that the time is coming up. I’m doing my homework on big market teams.”

“I’m not saying I won’t (sign an extension with the Bucks) and I’m not saying I will.  I’m just keeping my options open.”

This is the new NBA, even with a new CBA.  Stars want to flock to bigger markets and big-star teammates to improve marketability and the chance that they might band together and make a run at a title.  This summer’s lockout, and the subsequent collective bargaining agreement, did little to change that.  Sure, the Bucks may be able to offer a little more money, but not enough that it can’t be made up through endorsements and other off-court deals.

Don’t expect this story to go away any time soon.  Buckle up.