According to Siegel’s report, Antetokounmpo approved of the Middleton-Kuzma trade, but sources suggest it was not a move he expected the team to actually make. The two-time MVP shared a close relationship with Middleton, whom many around the NBA described as “family” to Giannis. That personal connection played a significant role in his reaction.

Antetokounmpo totaled 70 points, 30 rebounds and eight assists, a postseason opener feat unmatched since Wilt Chamberlain in 1967. Antetokounmpo shot 65.1 percent from the field across those 78 minutes,

MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst has agreed to a multiyear contract extension, a league source confirmed to The Athletic. After weeks of negotiating, Horst, 42, remains as the organization’s lead decision maker.