NBA Insider 'Would Be Concerned' About Giannis' Bucks Future If Jrue Holiday Leaves

Giannis Antetokounmpo's long-term future in Milwaukee looks uncertain and the fate of one of his co-stars could be a swing factor.

ESPN's Bobby Marks spoke about the situation on NBA Radio on Sirius XM, stating that the decision the team makes in regard to guard Jrue Holiday's future may be what makes Giannis make a decision about his future.

"I would be concerned based on what happens with Jrue Holiday," Marks said. "I think that's going to be the x-factor and what I am going to keep an eye on. Holiday is extension eligible February 22nd and potentially could be a free agent next year. What does Milwaukee do with him? If they lose him, they are in big trouble."

Holiday is entering his fourth season with the Bucks and earned his second All-Star nod in 2022-23. He has averaged 18.4 points, 6.8 assists and 4.7 rebounds in his time with the team and helped the team win the 2021 NBA Championship.

His best value perhaps comes on defense as he is a five-time All-Defensive honoree. He is entering the final year of his contract, although he does have a player option for 2024-25 worth $37.3 million.

Still, he will likely seek a contract with term and Marks was hesitant to believe that the Bucks want to give the 33-year-old Holiday significant term.

However, parting with Holiday after the season would not be a great sign of remaining a title contender and that is precisely what Antetokounmpo desires. His non-committal attitude comes strictly from his desire to win another championship and losing Holiday without an equal replacement does not satisfy that desire.

Antetokounmpo is under contract through 24-25 with a player option for 2025-26. However, the market for the two-time MVP will surely be very hot, so the Bucks will need to remain an appealing option for his services.