Loser: Milwaukee Bucks' Future

Tough conversations were inevitably coming when the Milwaukee Bucks bowed out of the playoffs. These talks are only going to become more painful after they lost to the Indiana Pacers in just five games and with Damian Lillard likely missing all of next season with a torn Achilles.

That's $54 million owed to a player who likely won't see the floor next season for a Bucks team that has only recently got below the second apron.

Brook Lopez has only missed nine total games the past three years, but he just turned 37 and will be an unrestricted free agent. Bobby Portis is likely to turn down a $13.4 million player option, and Gary Trent Jr.'s one-year deal is now up.

The Bucks only have one draft pick this summer (No. 47 overall, via the Detroit Pistons) and don't control any of their first-round selections until 2031. No young talent is coming.

If Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to stay in Milwaukee, the franchise should absolutely keep him, even if it means battling for a play-in spot next season. The two-time MVP has earned the right to make this decision for his future.

If he asks out, no one should blame him. This roster isn't close to competing for a championship even with a healthy Lillard. Still in his prime at age 30, Antetokounmpo deserves to compete for championships while he's still a No. 1 offensive option.