Five reasons why Giannis Antetokounmpo should be an MVP candidate
By Connor Learn
3. A true franchise player
The Milwaukee Bucks disappointed many last year when they failed to make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. The young squad went 41-41 and added Greg Monroe, but showed fans why rebuilding requires patience. Optimistic Bucks fans learned their lesson, and many lost optimism when Khris Middleton was lost this fall. NBA pundits picked Milwaukee to finish out of the Eastern Conference playoff picture again as they continued rebuilding.
The Bucks made minor changes to their roster this offseason; they really only added Malcolm Brogdon, Matthew Dellavedova, and Mirza Teletovic to their core. Despite this, their improved play has surprised so far this season. Milwaukee is 13-12, coming off back to back victories over the Chicago Bulls, and in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Though other Bucks deserve recognition for their contributions, Antetokounmpo has been the biggest factor in this happening.
Coming into this season, many described Antetokounmpo as a potential franchise player. This is a high honor to distinguish on a player and those fans meant such a thing as a compliment. His play this season has made it an insult. He has arrived as a franchise player this season and is someone capable of leading his team on each end, being among the best players in the league and carrying his team into the playoffs. The Bucks success is reflective of that.