NBA Notes: Nets, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Sixers, Paul George, Mavs, Kyrie Irving

Nets

The future of Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Bucks remains uncertain, particularly if the team faces another early playoff exit this season. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Antetokounmpo has expressed that while he loves the Bucks, his priority is winning, and he will consider other options if Milwaukee’s championship window closes (via Brian Lewis of the New York Post). Are the Nets in play?

After all, the Nets have positioned themselves as potential frontrunners for Antetokounmpo, with a strong collection of draft assets.

Nets general manager Sean Marks recently emphasized the importance of preparing for such opportunities. “We’re going to give ourselves the best chance to do that,” Marks said earlier this season. “Now, on whom and when, that’s TBD.”

Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee may hinge on the team’s ability to build a championship-contending roster. If the Bucks fail to meet those expectations, a trade could become more likely.

However, there is no indication that the two-time MVP intends to request a trade, despite the growing pressure on the Bucks to remain competitive.

• Veteran forward Cameron Johnson was a key figure in trade rumors leading up to the NBA deadline, but the Nets ultimately decided to retain him. In a team-produced interview, Marks explained the decision, highlighting Johnson’s strong fit on and off the court. “There was a lot of interest in him, but we like Cam,” Marks said. “He fits multiple builds we are working on.”
• Marks also praised Johnson’s leadership and professionalism, noting that he is a respected presence in the locker room. “He’s a voice of reason. He’s well-respected. He’s a pro’s pro,” Marks added.

76ers

Sixers forward Paul George confirmed a report last week from Charania, revealing that he has been receiving injections to manage various health issues, including tendon damage in his finger.

“I’m hanging in there,” George said on Thursday, according to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “I’m giving this team everything I have. The report is true. You know, I am taking some sorts of medicines to kind of, I guess, play through pain.”

Despite the ongoing issues, George remains committed to playing through the discomfort. With both George and teammate Joel Embiid dealing with injuries, and the Philadelphia 76ers holding a 20-35 record, it could be “completely understandable” if the team chooses to shut down its stars for the remainder of the season, Pompey wrote.

That said, there has been no indication from the team that such a decision is imminent.

Mavericks

In an interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews during All-Star weekend, Kyrie Irving called for a reduction in public criticism of Luka Doncic, who was traded to the Lakers earlier this month.

Irving expressed concerns over media leaks that criticized Doncic after the trade, while downplaying his contributions to the team.

“Part of our job every day is to deal with the public space, but there were real relationships that were built behind the scenes that will transcend just the basketball court,” Irving said.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining kindness and compassion in their interactions, both publicly and privately.

“Hopefully, we can tailor back on some of the public criticism aspects,” Irving continued, noting that people can often misinterpret or sensationalize statements.

Despite the emotions surrounding the trade, Irving called for a more balanced and respectful approach moving forward.