Why the Bucks Should Do It

The Bucks might not have to make a huge move in order to convince Antetokounmpo to stay. Perhaps he’ll stay regardless.

But from Milwaukee’s perspective, is it worth the risk? If Antetokounmpo leaves, Milwaukee is arguably in worse shape than the Thunder were when Kevin Durant left.

Oladipo gives Antetokounmpo a co-star who can score at will and help open things up offensively. He’d also take some of the load off of Antetokounmpo. Opposing defenses would have to respect Oladipo, which would likely give Antetokounmpo different looks than he had last season.

Oladipo is a star when he’s healthy, and Milwaukee can offer him a chance to pursue a title next season alongside Giannis and Khris Middleton.

Lastly, beyond the package Milwaukee would give up, there’s not a lot of inherent risk here for the Bucks. Oladipo is due $21 million — a rather modest salary for a player of his caliber in today’s NBA. And it will be the last year of his contract, so if Antetokounmpo leaves next year, Milwaukee isn’t stuck with a huge financial burden from Oladipo.