In the eyes of many, sitting Giannis Antetokounmpo and positioning themselves for a better draft pick is the best course of action for the Milwaukee Bucks down the stretch. Sure, the thought of landing an eye-popping selection in this loaded draft class is desirable, but at the same time, that sends a clear message to the team's star player. Just ask the Las Vegas Raiders.
Raiders sat their star player and lost him
Earlier this season, the Raiders decided to sit star Maxx Crosby for the final two games of the season. While he was injured, Crosby wanted to play, telling reporters, "I don't give a s*** about the pick." Even though he's always described himself as a Raider for life, Crosby opted to seek other opportunities in the aftermath of the decision and now finds himself in Baltimore.
Many would argue that Las Vegas' strategy worked just fine, as they did secure the top overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, that's not something in the cards for the Milwaukee Bucks. Even if they tank from here on out, a top-five pick isn't likely to fall into their laps. However, if they were to tell Giannis they'd like to sit him down, it could guarantee that he departs.
Bucks certainly won't sit Giannis down the stretch
Could Giannis use some rest? Absolutely. He's had two major injuries this season and is 31 years old. He's not 24 anymore. For the first time in his NBA career, his superhuman healing abilities weren't able to help him. As he ages, that isn't going to change. Rather than adding more tread on the tires, getting Giannis more rest could freshen him up for next season. It's just not happening, though.
Even if Milwaukee's playoff hopes are on life support amid a horrific stretch of games, Giannis isn't sitting out games. It's not in his DNA. As long as he can play, he will. If the Milwaukee Bucks thought about approaching him with the idea of sitting out, the relationship could fracture in an instant. He has already clearly thought about playing elsewhere; this would only increase that desirability.
Would Giannis love for the Milwaukee Bucks to get a high pick in the draft? Sure, especially if it can help set them up nicely for next season and beyond. However, not if it's coming at the expense of chasing the ultimate goal of winning in the present. It's just how the Greek Freak is wired. Las Vegas chose the future over the present. Some loved it. Some hated it.
Crosby was in the second camp. Giannis would be right there with him.
So, no, NBA media, don't expect the Milwaukee Bucks to pull the plug on Giannis anytime soon here.
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