Starting the trade machine for Giannis Antetokounmpo didn't take long, but making a deal isn't the only answer for Milwaukee.

The Rockets find themselves on the cusp of championship contention. Their disruptive, dominant defense is camera-ready for basketball's biggest stage. Their competitive fire and the fight instilled under head coach Ime Udoka can keep sturdy legs beneath them through the final rounds of a heavyweight brawl.

Milwaukee choked away a seven-point lead in the final 40 seconds of overtime in Game 5 against the Pacers, losing 119-118 when Tyrese Haliburton put in a layup with 1.1 ticks left. It was a stunning end for the Bucks, who lost the series four games to one.

While Damian Lillard may return at the end of next season from a torn Achilles tendon, here’s a look at his current contract situation with the Bucks.

With the Milwaukee Bucks on the verge of playoff elimination, Damian Lillard is out with a torn Achilles tendon.

Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers says injured guard Damian Lillard had two points to make when they spoke Tuesday