For once—and perhaps just this once—it doesn’t feel like the media is leading the franchise player by the tail.
So often, the critiques levied against talking heads are that they pull certain levers and build narratives about small-market superstars to create headlines and draw higher TV ratings. But in this latest case, involving two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo saying he wouldn’t agree to an extension with the Bucks before next season and that he wants assurances the club will remain a title contender before signing, it was the player creating speculation all on his own.
Yet we should be crystal clear on something: For all the questions his comments have created, it makes complete sense for Antetokounmpo to take the contractual stance he has. In fact, it’d be a bit foolish for him to handle the issue any differently than this.
