It’s difficult to fight against your heart. Giannis Antetokounmpo is caught in such a situation. With a decision about his future looming, several teams have been linked to the Greek Freak. The Bucks’ move to waive Damian Lillard added fuel to the fire of Antetokounmpo possibly leaving. However, Milwaukee is where it all happened for the star forward. He’s a part of the community and, more importantly, immortalized in the franchise’s history.

But there seems to be some headway in his decision. Notably, the two-time MVP caught up with Speed, one of the biggest streamers in the world in Greece. The notorious streamer managed to shock Antetokounmpo by dunking at the court where the Bucks forward learned to play basketball. But after their little activity, they sat down for a conversation.

Speed initiated the conversation, speaking about the high tax rates in New York and Los Angeles. Antetokounmpo acknowledged the demands. “Lots of people are trying to convince me to go play there,” he said on Speed’s stream. That was quickly followed by a rejection. Hard luck to the Knicks fans who might have hoped for his arrival.

But then came the big question. “So you staying in Milwaukee?” the streamer asked him.

Giannis Antetokounmpo didn’t take long to respond. And it was reflective of his loyalty towards Wisconsin. “Probably. We’ll see. I love Milwaukee,” he told the streaming sensation. Clearly, the thought of leaving Milwaukee is hard to come to terms with for Antetokounmpo. It’s understandable why his decision isn’t simplified despite their moves.

The franchise put their trust in him when they drafted him. Additionally, their championship victory convinced Giannis Antetokounmpo about the franchise’s intentions to compete. But looking at the state of the roster right now, it’s really hard to see how they can compete in the East. While other franchises have made great moves, the Bucks have only signed Myles Turner as a replacement for Brook Lopez.

So where do the Bucks go from here?

Other Eastern Conference teams are on the move in the offseason. The Cleveland Cavaliers traded for Lonzo Ball to strengthen their defense and playmaking. Celtics got Anfernee Simons to cope with Jayson Tatum missing out the entire season. Even the Philadelphia 76ers have renewed hope as VJ Edgecombe shines in the Summer League.

But looking at the Bucks, their situation can improve, but not greatly.

The signing of Turner is a step in the right direction. It gives them a true stretch center who can also supply as a shot blocker. But losing Damian Lillard in that exchange isolates Giannis Antetokounmpo once again. The problem is, the Milwaukee Bucks can’t do much within their current situation to provide any help for the Greek Freak.

They don’t have a draft pick to trade until 2031. Even if they do decide to use it, they lack high-value contracts to make a trade for bringing another star to the city. Being over the second apron limits them from aggregating salaries. Hence, a trade would mean the roster will likely lose out on something.

Competing with such limited firepower in what has become a packed Conference would require a celestial effort. So, although LA and the Knicks have been ruled out, the race for Giannis Antetokounmpo still remains hot. There is a loyalty factor that will determine how his future plays out. He is under contract, but how long can Antetokounmpo sideline his desire to compete for championships?

That is his ultimate goal. And with each passing move around the league, it grows increasingly tougher for the Bucks to make that case to their all-time leading scorer. Do you think Giannis Antetokounmpo will remain in Milwaukee? Let us know your views in the comments below.