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Bucks GM Jon Horst insists not playing Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t about tanking
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- Bucks GM Jon Horst insists not playing Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t about tanking
Bucks GM Jon Horst insists not playing Giannis Antetokounmpo isn't about tanking appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The relationship between the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo is at the point of no return as their controversy-riddled season boils down.
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Antetokounmpo has not played since March 15 due to a knee injury and a bone bruise. He, however, said he is healthy and wants to play. The Bucks , however, have planned to shut him down for the rest of the season.
Amid the issue, the NBA has started an investigation into any possible violation by the Bucks, whose season has been riddled with controversies .
On Tuesday, Bucks general manager Jon Horst maintained that sitting out the 31-year-old Antetokounmpo is about prioritizing his health , as reported by The Athletic's Eric Nehm.
"He's not cleared to play yet in a game, and we're going to continue to evaluate it," said Horst in a media conference.
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"It has nothing to do with draft picks. It has nothing to do with tanking. It has everything to do with the health of the player."
Milwaukee, sitting on a 31-48 record, is already out of contention for the playoffs, ending its streak of nine consecutive appearances.
The Bucks lost to the Brooklyn Nets , 96-90, at Barclays Center on Tuesday. They played without Antetokounmpo, Kevin Porter Jr. , Ryan Rollins , Myles Turner , Kyle Kuzma , Bobby Portis , and Gary Trent Jr .
Antetokounmpo has been limited to a career-low 36 games this season, averaging 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Bucks have accepted the "inevitability" that a trade will happen involving two-time MVP in the summer. A source also blamed Antetokounmpo for causing a "toxic" environment in the team.
Related: Doc Rivers drops retirement hint following Bucks' letdown season
Related: Chris Broussard lays out perfect Giannis trade destination
