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Doc Rivers Says Giannis Is Still Injured as NBA Reviews Union’s Tanking Claim

The union’s charge has turned Giannis’s status into a test of player control versus draft incentives.

Overview

  • Rivers said Wednesday that Giannis Antetokounmpo is progressing but not healthy after a March 15 left knee hyperextension and bone bruise.
  • The NBPA accused Milwaukee of holding out a healthy All-Star to lose games for draft position, and Adam Silver said the league will review the situation.
  • Milwaukee sits 29-43 with long playoff odds, which increases scrutiny of incentives because each loss can slightly improve draft lottery chances.
  • Ownership has signaled an extend-or-trade stance this summer, and reporting from The Athletic and ESPN describes growing doubt about Giannis’s future and a planned Lakers pursuit.
  • Analyst Kirk Goldsberry said the Magic have been active in exploring a trade for Giannis, with outside observers noting Orlando would likely need to include Paolo Banchero or Franz Wagner to make a viable offer.