Giannis Antetokounmpo calms Knicks and rumors

If some were afraid of it Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t fully on when it comes time to face New York, the Bucks star offered a strong response. The Greek, as always, was the leader of Bucks their win over the Knicks with a magnificent individual performance.

“The Greek Freak” had more than one reason to turn out in his favor, whether it was possibly to seduce the Gotham franchise a little more, or simply to put to rest rumors that the Knicks were being referred to as possible future destination if Milwaukee’s sports situation gets stuck in the coming months.

Either way, Giannis Antetokounmpo has been relentless on the floor, showing his power and aggressiveness. Because before talking about his future, he had a small score to settle with his team’s performances in recent months. “Obviously there was an excess of motivation” the “franchise player” of Milwaukee assured at the press conference. “They swept us last season. They swept us. They were much better than us last season and we didn’t make it difficult for them. It was very easy for them in my opinion. As the leader of this team I have a memory, I don’t forget these things. From the morning showdown I try to set the tone for the team and remind them that they swept us, the same with the Cavaliers.

“I don’t remember that”

If the Bucks met against Cleveland again on Sunday, in a close match, this time Milwaukee managed to raise the level against New York, especially in defense in the second period, winning 62-40. “I think the team reacted in the best possible way, so I’m happy.”

Enough to completely squash the rumors mentioned by ESPN, who assured that New York will be his preferred destination if he has to leave Wisconsin? “I don’t read this stuff” Giannis Antetokounmpo responded sharply. “I don’t remember that. For now, I’m here to represent my team, that’s all. We beat the Knicks, so it doesn’t matter. What’s important is we have a game in two days against Golden State, we have to try to stay focused and get another win. I didn’t read this article. I’m trying to stay away from these rumors. This trade affects me.

Exemplary on the floor and in attitude, Giannis Antetokounmpo made it easy after the match with the media thanks to his team’s victory. And that at their interesting start to the season (3-1) despite the restructuring of the team in recent months (departure of Khris Middleton, Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez, arrival of Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner). “This team is built exactly the way it should be built to win.” insisted the Greek. “I like what I see. The guys are playing to win. And that’s what we’re going to do all season. That’s why we’re here. That’s why we wear this jersey. That’s why we represent these fans, our team, our family. And that’s how it will be all year.”

But Giannis Antetokounmpo’s determination will depend on the Bucks’ results in the medium term, with the “Greek Freak” still under contract until 2027, with an option for an additional season.

How to read statistics? MJ = matches played; Min = Minute; Shots = Shots Successful / Shots Attempted; 3 points = 3 points / attempt 3 points; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; Off = offensive rebound; Def=defensive jump; Tot = Total number of jumps; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal mistakes; Int = intercepts; Bp = lost balls; Ct: Against; Points = Points.