Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective Giannis Return Change Bucks’ Future? + Paolo & Magic Staff At Odds?
Mar 4, 2026
Discussion on Giannis returning to Milwaukee and how his minutes and recent wins reshape the Bucks' short-term future. Breakdown of a tense back-and-forth between Paolo Banchero and Orlando's coach over role and expectations. Conversation about Steph Curry’s knee management and why Golden State is pacing his recovery. Look at OKC’s rest strategy to keep key players fresh.
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Bucks Opted To Compete Instead Of Tanking
- The Bucks chose to stop tanking and chase a play-in spot after Giannis returned, narrowing their long-term rebuild options.
- They won 8 of 10 without Giannis, sit around 10th in draft odds, and their pick depends on Pelicans' positioning in a pick-swap deal.
Eight Wins Changed Milwaukee's Draft Floor
- Milwaukee controlled its own draft fate earlier but winning eight games with Giannis out moved them to roughly the 10th projected pick.
- That shift reduces their guaranteed floor in a deep draft and narrows routes to landing top-tier prospects.
Make Late Season Wins Count To End Tanking
- The NBA should change incentives so late-season wins matter to reduce tanking and improve competitiveness.
- Tim Bontemps suggests counting wins in the final third of the season toward lottery positioning to remove perverse incentives.