Giannis returns as Bucks look to extend streak

James Harden said he has yet to consider his offseason moves following the Philadelphia 76ers’ Game 7 loss to the Boston Celtics.

“I haven’t even thought about it,” said Harden following the loss.

Harden, who currently has a $35.6 million player option for next season, could decline it and become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

“I just want to have a chance to compete,” said Harden, when asked what he would look for in his next opportunity.

Harden also added that his relationship with Doc Rivers was “OK.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo becomes eligible for a contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks this September and he could elect to wait before committing long-term again to the franchise. Antetokounmpo can add two more seasons on his deal for approximately $113 million.

Antetokounmpo signed a supermax extension with the Bucks in 2020 following their trade for Jrue Holiday.

This offseason, the Bucks also have critical decisions to make with the free agencies of Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez.

“I think it is unlikely Giannis extends his contract this summer,” said Brian Windhorst. “He does have two years left, but with everything that’s going on with the team and considering there’s new ownership that makes it very difficult.

“And the Bucks are heading into the repeater tax. This is what happens to teams who are contenders year after year and they spend. Everything on this team is about to get more expensive. Plus, we have new rules coming in that is going to limit the way they can improve this roster moving forward. They are a late stage contender with a superstar in his 20s.

“There are teams in this league watching very closely to see what happens with the Bucks this summer.”