Damian Lillard talks about chemistry issues with Giannis, and it’s a big problem for the Bucks

Iafter a candid interview, the Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard acknowledged the chemistry issues he and teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo are working through, shining a spotlight on one of the NBA’s most high-profile duos.

After a difficult start to the season, Lillard expressed a clear need for improved accountability and communication between himself and the two-time MVP, such as the Bucks aim to cement their place as serious contenders.

Dame and Giannis are still finding their feet

Speaking on the Knuckleheads podcast: Lillard opened up about the dynamic he and he had Antetokounmpo what they struggle with both on and off the field.

“Me and him (Giannis) have to hold each other accountable,” Lillard explained.

He emphasized that this responsibility does not mean frequent arguments, but rather open, honest dialogue, saying:

‘I need to be able to say something to you. And you should always be able to say something to me.’

For Lillardthe adjustment goes further than just forming a bond with the court.

Both he and Antetokounmpo managed their former teams—Lillard with the Portland Trail Blazers and Giannis with the Bucks – and each found success with their individual styles.

Now that they join forces, Lillard stressed the importance of mutual trust, noting that both he and Giannis must fully support each other’s role as top players in the competition.

“He’s always had to put his foot down in Milwaukee… and I’ve always had to put his foot down in Portland. And I think now that we’re together… we both have to look and say, ‘This is a top-‘ 75 player too.’ And I have to trust that he will carry this with me,’ Lillard added.

Bucks expects much more from their star duo

The Lillard Giannis The link was expected to deliver immediate results for the Bucksand their contrasting skills seemed to provide a perfect balance.

However, after a turbulent 2023 season that ended with a first-round playoff exit and a coaching change, the Bucks are currently 1-3.

They nevertheless suffered a double-digit loss to the Boston Celtics Lillard And Giannis combined for an impressive 63 points.

Still, the team’s defense remains a concern, as does the connection between the two star players on the field.

With new head coach Dock Rivers at the helm, the Bucks We want to turn things around, but that will depend on how quickly Lillard And Antetokounmpo can create the partnership needed for success.

Lillards high scoring ability (he averages 28.0 points, 6.3 assists and 6.0 rebounds per game) shows his value, but his full impact won’t be felt until he finds a rhythm with Antetokounmpo.

Lillard expressed optimism and concluded: ‘I think we should both do that. Then we got a chance. We got a chance.’

Like the Bucks working to align their star players, fans wonder: Can Lillard And Antetokounmpo bridge their differences and deliver the kind of chemistry needed Milwaukee another championship?