Giannis and Bucks Divorce Expected Before Trade Deadline

Merlin sees the league bracing for a split between the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo, based on Brian Windhorst’s report. Windhorst said, "It's almost like a couple that everybody in the league thinks is going to get divorced." Shams Charania added that Giannis and his agent are "having conversations" with Milwaukee about his future and that a resolution could come soon. Giannis remains elite at 28.5 points on 64.5 percent shooting, 9.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists, while the Bucks sit 18-24 and 11th in the East. Merlin senses a tug of war. Milwaukee refusing inbound calls and only making outgoing ones looks like careful positioning, not peace. If the Bucks climb back toward .500 the partnership may hold. If struggles continue, contenders will be ready to offer the pieces Giannis wants to chase another title.