Summer Focus and Final Grade
This summer is an interesting one in many ways for Antetokounmpo.
For one, he’s likely to play for the Greek National team as they look to qualify for this year’s summer Olympics.
Greece’s path to qualify will be quite a challenge as they are only two slots open for the many prestigious teams that are playing in this year’s FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Antetokounmpo’s presence will certainly boost Greece’s chances, but it’ll be a tough road to get through regardless.
Secondly, Antetokounmpo is eligible for a rookie extension this summer.
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Antetokounmpo’s clearly qualified for a max extension, but the Bucks know they’ll be facing this same question with Jabari Parker next summer. The Bucks and Anetetokounmpo are clearly on the same page, but how the front office navigates through extension talks will be fascinating to watch.
As far as skills Antetokounmpo should work on this summer, the biggest has to be his three-point shooting.
Admittedly, it’s not as big of an issue now that Antetokounmpo will be the team’s primary ball handler next season and (likely) beyond. With all the skills he possesses when he has the ball in his hands, Giannis is already a problem teams have trouble dealing with.
With that said, adding a consistent three-point shot just adds another dimension on offense for Antetokounmpo and would turn him into a force to be reckoned with. It’d also allows opportunities for Khris Middleton and Parker to initiate plays and let Antetokounmpo function off the ball.
However, the trajectory Antetokounmpo is on is a thrill for every Bucks fan and the move of just putting him as the team’s “point guard” was so unexpected and gratifying to watch at the same time.
If things continue, it won’t be long until he reaches greater stardom than where he is right now.
BTBP Final Grade: A
Next: Milwaukee Bucks 2015-16 Season Review: Khris Middleton
With a couple more profiles to come, be sure to watch out for the remaining roundups on the rest of the Bucks roster.