While Milwaukee Bucks fans are dreading the expected end of the Giannis Antetokounmpo era, a trade can give the organization the fresh start it needs to build a prosperous future. There is a chance both parties come out of this situation in good standing. Though, in order for such a scenario to occur, the franchise may feel it has to part ways with another sizable contract. Teams who want No. 34 might also have to take on Kyle Kuzma.
Journalist-turned-renowned podcaster Bill Simmons believes that “a Giannis tax” will be applied to the Boston Celtics or other potential suitors who wish to complete a blockbuster with the Bucks, per the Fullcourtpass X account. Kuzma, who quietly shot 49.2 percent from the field last season, could therefore be included in a trade package. The veteran forward is only fueling speculation with his latest social media activity.
Kuzma dropped an X post that featured eight bomb emojis. Is huge news on the way? Or, is the 2020 NBA champion merely having some fun? Perhaps both can be true. Players instigate all the time, but with an Antetokounmpo trade gaining more traction than ever before, people are completely justified in making assumptions.
Kuzma is set to earn $20.49 million next season before becoming a free agent, so the Bucks could be looking to offload his remaining salary if and when they ship out their franchise centerpiece. He averaged 13.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 69 games with Milwaukee during the 2025-26 campaign. His modest 3-point-shooting could turn off teams, but he did make strides in that area (34.5 percent).
The 2017 first-round draft pick does not need to be a main contributor entering his age-31 season. He can potentially make a worthwhile difference by merely building on his Bucks tenure.
In any case, something is brewing in Milwaukee. And if Kyle Kuzma is to be believed, a major development is set to unfold imminently.
