The departure of Doc Rivers marks just the beginning of a summer that looks turbulent for the Milwaukee Bucks. The franchise has been on a clear downward trend since their 2021 championship, with early playoff eliminations culminating in missing the postseason in 2026 as the Eleventh seed in the East.
The team's recent journey reflects this loss of competitiveness: conference semifinals in 2022, first-round exits in 2023, 2024, and 2025, and ultimately total absence from the playoffs this season. A scenario pointing towards significant changes in the roster.
Giannis, the big name on the way out
The most significant case is that of Giannis Antetokounmpo. The two-time MVP and Finals MVP seems to have reached a breaking point with the franchise.
Tensions have been rising in recent years, but the final conflict arose towards the end of this season when player and club disagreed openly about his return after injury. While the Greek wanted to play again, the organization chose to keep him out, creating a highly strained environment.
All signs point to his tenure in Milwaukee ending this summer.

Bobby Portis, another champion on the way out
Also bidding farewell could be Bobby Portis, one of the last members of the 2021 title-winning team. The forward still has two years left on his contract but has been the subject of numerous trade rumors over the past year.
If Antetokounmpo's departure is confirmed, his exit seems even more likely in the context of a total rebuild. Furthermore, the recent sale of his home in Milwaukee reinforces the feeling of an imminent change.
Gary Trent Jr., an unexpected setback
The third highlighted name is Gary Trent Jr., whose season has fallen well below expectations. The guard, who arrived after averaging 18 points per game with the Toronto Raptors, has posted his worst season with only 8.1 points on average.
In 65 games, many of them with a limited role, he even had nine scoreless outings. Apart from a standout 36-point performance at the end of March, his impact has been very limited.
With a player option of $3.8 million for the upcoming season and still at 27 years old, all indications point to him seeking a fresh opportunity away from Milwaukee to regain his top form.
With Rivers' departure already confirmed and the possible departure of several key pieces, the Bucks face a deep rebuilding process. The summer will be crucial to redefine the course of a franchise that, after reaching the top in 2021, has entered a clear downward spiral.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: Los 3 jugadores que abandonarán el proyecto Milwaukee Bucks