The Milwaukee Bucks’ offseason saw them switch stars. Damian Lillard was waived, making way for Myles Turner to join Giannis Antetokounmpo. The former Pacers center does help, but Antetokounmpo is viewed to be the only threat on the roster. Moreover, the Bucks didn’t find a like-for-like replacement for Lillard either. But have they finally done that?

Russell Westbrook is one of the few marquee free agents remaining. Recently, his former teammate Kendrick Perkins advocated for the Bucks to sign Brodie. Have they made any approach? No, the Bucks haven’t signed Westbrook to a contract. But you can picture Brodie running the show for Milwaukee.

Russ comes with a decade of experience. He carries a veteran’s spirit, trying to uplift youngsters around him. He did it with Christian Braun last season, letting him keep the number 0. And the former MVP had a productive stint, averaging 13.3 points and 6.6 assists off the bench for the Nuggets. The Bucks could surely use his skill set to connect the pieces on the roster.

A few months ago, Clutch Sports’ Brett Siegel also reported on the Bucks’ apparent interest in signing Russell Westbrook. But on media day, Giannis Antetokounmpo didn’t signal for help. In fact, the two-time MVP largely believes in the “sleeper” Bucks team.

“I love that we’re younger. … We have energy. I think this is a team full of dogs, guys that know their role and (are) gonna try to do their best to figure into their role and try to help this team be great, so I’m excited,” said the Greek Freak. This comes after months of rumors of a possible trade request from Antetokounmpo swirling in the air. It seems the brawling forward is keen on finding out the potential of the Bucks.

It could also see a major development for the 30-year-old.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is bound for growth this season

Without a true point guard on the roster, Westbrook could possibly fit in as a starter. He plays with speed, combining his athleticism with in-game acumen. His explosiveness is what separates Brodie from most point guards. Now, imagine that same specimen running in, but only 6’11”. That’s a role Giannis Antetokounmpo could have this season.

Alperen Sengun might have said Antetokounmpo isn’t the greatest passer. However, over the last few seasons, there’s been evident growth. The ‘wall’ that could previously stop him no longer stands as an obstacle to him. He has averaged a career-high 6.5 assists consistently over his past few seasons.

Even late last season, Giannis Antetokounmpo baffled the NBA world with his triple-double performances. Doc Rivers and the Bucks believe he can be a facilitator without compromising his scoring volume. They have consistent three-pointer shooters around their roster who can capitalize on the defensive disturbance Antetokounmpo causes.

While playing for Greece during EuroBasket 2025, the Greek Freak had the ball almost exclusively in his hands. Antetokounmpo seems comfortable with balancing the duties of a scorer and a playmaker, and still performing at an elite standard. So, if the Bucks do make a move, they may not have their eyes on a floor general.

With the Bucks gone, the chances of Westbrook being on a team this season continue to grow slim. But most fans would want to see one of the greats play for a little longer. Westbrook can still make a difference in the right environment. The Houston Rockets remain without a point guard. Many are fantasizing about a KD-Russ reunion. Sadly, the Rockets reportedly want to give their youngsters some time before deciding on the need for a trade. The Sacramento Kings were also reportedly interested to sign Westbrook.

With time winding down, the possibility of the Thunder legend being out of the league grows larger. Let’s hope Russell Westbrook finds his fit before that.