Updated March 19th, 2020 at 18:20 IST

NBA suspension could affect Milwaukee Bucks' attempts to re-sign Giannis in 2021: Report

NBA 2019-20: Recent NBA reports suggest that the NBA suspension is 'not helpful' for the Milwaukee Bucks to re-sign reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. 

Reported by: Devika Pawar
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The NBA suspension last week halted the Milwaukee Bucks championship campaign with a league-leading 52-12 win-loss record. Reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been a part of the Bucks since 2013, is yet to win an NBA championship. Since Giannis Antetokounmpo's Bucks contract will end in 2021, there have been rumours about other NBA teams trying to acquire the 'Greek Freak'. Reports suggest that the NBA suspension is 'not helpful' for the Bucks to re-sign Giannis Antetokounmpo. 

Also read | NBA suspension: Giannis Antetokounmpo pledges $100,000 to Chase Center during Coronavirus lockdown

The NBA suspension is not helpful for Giannis Antetokounmpo signing with the Bucks in 2021

According to a recent report, a league executive said that though there are chances of Giannis Antetokounmpo re-signing with the team, the NBA suspension will not help their chances. As the outcome of the NBA suspension cannot be predicted, Giannis Antetokounmpo's decision could also be affected in the long run. In a recent interview, the Bucks star had stated that as long as the Bucks are winning, he is most likely to stay with them. If the Bucks do not win the NBA championship after the NBA suspension comes to an end, Giannis may be inclined to sign with other teams courting him.

Also read | Bam Adebayo admits he can't persuade Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miami Heat in 2021

NBA suspension: Will Giannis Antetokounmpo re-sign with Bucks?

Giannis Antetokounmpo free agency

Giannis, who is currently on a four-year contract with the Bucks, will enter free agency in 2021. NBA reports have hinted at Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks wanting to sign Giannis in 2021. However, the Golden State Warriors might offer the Bucks the Timberwolves' first-round draft pick and Andrew Wiggins in return. The choice will depend on Giannis, who can also sign an extension with the Bucks. 

Also read | Giannis Antetokounmpo free agency: Will the Warriors acquire the Bucks star?

NBA suspension: NBA suspended after Rudy Gobert tests positive for COVID-19

Rudy Gobert was the first NBA player to test positive for COVID-19 last week, which caused the NBA to fast-track their decision to suspend the league. Along with Gobert, there are now seven NBA players with coronavirus. Kevin Durant along with three other Brooklyn Nets players tested positive on March 17 (March 18 IST), while Jazz's Donovan Mitchell and Detroit Pistons' Christian Wood suffered the same fate a day after the suspension. In a statement released the Brooklyn Nets, they assured fans that the players and staff members will remain isolated, while physicians closely monitor their situation. 

Also read | NBA suspension: NBA likely to hold All-Star style fundraiser game amidst coronavirus pandemic

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Published March 19th, 2020 at 18:20 IST