Giannis Antetokounmpo and his future with the Milwaukee Bucks have been one of the biggest talking points of the 2025-26 season. Amid the never-ending suspense, there have also been concerns about the two-time MVP's injuries, the latest being a hyperextended left knee.
Antetokounmpo has played only 36 games this season, with the number likely to stay the same as we near the playoffs. His absence has no doubt hurt the Bucks, who are far away from even making the Play-In. That said, there have been several media speculations about his health.
One such narrative is the Bucks cautiously resting Giannis not only to tank the season but also to prevent injuries that could complicate trade talks around him. While it may be the right strategy for some, veteran guards like Patrick Beverley struggle to wrap their heads around it.
Recently, voicing his displeasure with such so-called strategies, Beverley went on a rant against people who want Antetokounmpo to sit it out in case he becomes healthy as well.
"If he's healthy, regardless if they have a chance to make the playoffs or not, Greek is going to want to play basketball. I think it's a testament to what type of player he is. I think it's a testament to what type of person he is, what type of man he is, the character he has," said the former All-Defensive guard.
Pat tried to remind everyone of the essence of playing basketball and how it was above everything else.
"People saying he should shut it down. I don't understand why at all. If you healthy, play. That's that's how it's been since we've been hooping at the park. Why does money and situation, and not making the playoffs, Why does that change things? Why does that change anything? You're a hooper hoop, I don't understand why," stated Pat Bev during a recent episode of his podcast.
Adding to his case of Giannis playing the remainder of the season if he were healthy, Patrick emphasized the value of fans. The Greek Freak surely holds a special place in the hearts of the Milwaukeeans, given the several moments of joy he brought to the city, including an NBA title.
"No, they not making the playoffs. That's the business side of it. What about those fans that want to come see Greek the last game of the season, right?What about those people who flew from Greece to try to see who try to put their money together and see Greek last games out the season," stated Pat Bev, adding how it was not only unfair for the fans but also the game of basketball.
Nonetheless, he reiterated that his argument was against those not playing despite being healthy.
"If you're hurt, be hurt. I'm with it. If you're injured, injured. Get healthy. Get right. I'm with it. See you next year. But if you're healthy and you can play, like, come on, don't disrespect the game like that," specified Beverely.
As Pat had assumed, there have been reports that Giannis is resisting shutting down for the remainder of the season.
Given Antetokounmpo's competitive spirit and hunger to win, it is no surprise that he wants to play if there is the slightest chance. According to TSN , the Bucks superstar has rejected the team's request to shut down for the season and remains adamant about it.
As long as there's no risk of future injury, Giannis wants to play even if it's a losing proposition. At the same time, Bucks management needs to be extra careful when the case is a calf or knee injury. Its recurring nature has been another worrying factor, especially knowing how a calf strain can turn into a potential Achilles injury.
Nevertheless, it is highly unlikely now that Antetokounmpo returns. He could have already played his last game as a Buck. The upcoming off-season is a make-or-break time when it comes to the Greek Freak's future in Milwaukee. It will certainly be interesting to see how the coming months unfold.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Apr 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
