Damian Lillard’s sudden release from the Milwaukee Bucks stunned both fans and media-but no one was more blindsided than Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to reports, the team’s franchise star was unaware of the decision and is deeply unhappy about it.
In a stunning move on July 1, the Bucks announced they had waived Lillard. The 13-year veteran’s contract had become a heavy burden on Milwaukee’s salary cap, limiting the team’s ability to build a championship roster around Antetokounmpo.
Lillard had two years and $112.6 million remaining on his deal, including a $54 million salary for the 2025 season-representing 14.5% of the Bucks’ 2025-26 cap. To mitigate the hit, Milwaukee elected to waive him and spread the payout over five years at $22.5 million annually, per ESPN.
Is Giannis ready to walk?
Antetokounmpo has yet to publicly comment on the move, but league sources told insider Chris Haynes that the two-time MVP “is not pleased with the team’s decision to waive Damian Lillard.”
Giannis is under contract for two more seasons, with a player option for 2027-28. But the clock is ticking: the Bucks’ front office must prove they can build another Finals-caliber team-or risk losing their cornerstone to another franchise.
Back in May, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Antetokounmpo was “open-minded” about switching teams for the first time in his career. Just last week, Charania added that Giannis is “closely watching” the Bucks’ moves in the draft and free agency before deciding his future.
Mixed signals this offseason
Beyond waiving Lillard, Milwaukee has already lost veteran center Brook Lopez to free agency. However, they did sign former Pacers big man Myles Turner-a move Antetokounmpo reportedly praised immediately.
The Bucks also re-signed Bobby Portis, Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Kevin Porter Jr. The question remains: will these moves be enough to persuade Giannis to stay in Milwaukee?
If not, the next “shocking” headline might be about the Greek Freak leaving the only NBA home he’s ever known.
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