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What Will Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Do During Their Downtime After the 2025 Super Bowl? We Have Some Ideas

Are we getting ‘Reputation (Taylor’s Version)’? A whole new album? PEOPLE has a few thoughts on what Swift and Kelce’s next move will be

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce after the AFC Championship on Jan. 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. Photo: Brooke Sutton/Getty

For the first time in their relationship, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce both have an extended break from work.

Swift and Kelce, both 35, have been going nonstop since they started dating in the summer of 2023. The pop star embarked on her two-year Eras Tour at the beginning of 2023, and when she wasn’t commanding a crowd, she was cheering on Kelce from the sidelines as the Kansas City Chiefs dominated the game, appearing in three consecutive Super Bowls.

And even when they weren’t performing for stadiums full of fans, the couple had plenty of other projects lined up. In between legs of her tour, Swift released her 11th studio album The Tortured Poets Department. During the NFL player’s off-season, he made a foray into television, acting in Ryan Murphy’s Grotesquerie and hosting Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?

Following the Chiefs’ blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 Super Bowl, everyone is wondering what Swift and Kelce’s next move will be. A source told PEOPLE that the high-profile pair will “have a break together” — but as we know, Taylor Swift never rests for long.

We have a few thoughts on what Swift and Kelce might do with their newfound free time.

Taylor Swift during the ‘Reputation’ era during the Eras Tour; Taylor Swift’s ‘Reputation’ album cover.Ashok Kumar/TAS24/Getty; Taylor Swift

Release Reputation (Taylor’s Version)

Every year since 2019, Swift has released at least one studio album, and she hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. Fans have speculated that she already has two albums in the pipeline: re-recordings of her debut Taylor Swift and her sixth record Reputation.

Reputation (Taylor’s Version) in particular is one that her diehard fans have been fixated on, even before The Tortured Poets Department. It’s the perfect time to drop her most romantic album to date (see “End Game,” “Call It What You Want” and “Dress”), and if there’s any two people with a “big reputation,” it’s a four-time album of the year Grammy winner and a three-time Super Bowl champion.

Record Her 12th Studio Album

Knowing Swift, she’s constantly writing new material, so we wouldn’t be surprised if she’s spotted leaving Electric Lady Studios in the next few months. Plus, we’re dying to see what a record inspired by her current life and romance would sound like. Stadium rock? A return to country? Metallica covers? The possibilities are endless.

Taylor Swift’s cats, Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey.Taylor Swift/Instagram

Adopt Another Cat (or a Dog!)

Swift is a proud cat owner, adopting three cats between 2011 and 2019. It’s been more than half a decade since bringing a new kitten into the family; is it time to give Meredith, Olivia and Benjamin another sibling? Maybe she’ll fall in love with a new cat while taping a music video, like she did with Benjamin. But we wouldn’t be shocked if the self-proclaimed cat lady and her boyfriend take a liking to a dog. Maybe it’s Travis’ golden retriever energy.

Taylor Swift at the Met Gala in 2014.Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty

Make Their Red Carpet Debut at the Met Gala

Because of their busy schedules, the pair haven’t had the opportunity to walk a red carpet with each other, despite being together for nearly two years. Most recently, Kelce couldn’t attend the 2025 Grammys because the Chiefs were in practice for the Super Bowl one week later.

With nothing on their plates for the foreseeable future — coupled with Travis’ stylish sensibilities — it would be a major moment for America’s most famous couple to walk the year’s biggest red carpet at the Met Gala on May 5.

Direct Her Feature Film

In 2022, Searchlight Pictures announced that Swift was set to direct her first feature-length film. She hasn’t exactly had the time to hunker down and work on a script while jet-setting around the world on tour, but now is the perfect opportunity for a pivot into filmmaking. Swift has directed several of her own music videos over the years, including a 10-minute short film for “All Too Well,” but we’ve yet to see what she can do with a full movie.

With Travis’ interest in acting, she could even cast him as the lead!

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce; Jason Kelce and Kylie Kelce. TheStewartofNY/GC Images; Lisa Lake/Getty

Plan Kylie Kelce’s Baby Shower

Kelce’s brother Jason and his sister-in-law Kylie are expecting their fourth daughter together, and there’d be no better way to celebrate than to have Uncle Travis and The Taylor Swift organize a blowout baby shower. Jason, Kylie and their daughters love a good party, jamming out to Swift at the Eras Tour in Miami, so it’d be a sweet gesture to put on another bash for their loved ones.

Enjoy Some Island Breeze on Vacation

They can go anywhere they want, meaning it’s entirely plausible that we could see Swift and Kelce next in the Bahamas … or the Maldives … or one of those islands regular people don’t know about that don’t show up on normal maps. It’s a deserved getaway from their busy New York City date nights or their backstage rendezvous after her Eras Tour shows — and if anyone has earned some uninterrupted downtime, it’s definitely this couple.

Celtics Star Jaylen Brown Shockingly Calls It Quits With WNBA Free Agent Kysre Gondrezick

Jaylen Brown and Kysre Gondrezick (Photo by Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn Images)
Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown has ended his relationship with WNBA free agent Kysre Gondrezick. The superstar NBA guard who was in the much talked relationship with the WNBA star, put full stop to his personal interest.

The couple has called it a split ahead of the NBA season, as reported by Page Six. However, it is a hard pill to swallow for people close to the basketball duo, as sources have said. Brown and Gondrezick began dating last summer and made their red carpet debut together at the 2024 ESPY Awards. Sources indicated that Brown ‘began distancing himself to focus on basketball.’

While there isn’t any direct communication from either of the parties regarding the core reason for the call-off, speculations are running high. However, the news came out of nowhere as they were together for some time and had no such clue for their fans. During their time together, Brown was totally invested in Kysre, as people closely following the relationship explained.

The 4x NBA All-Star also reported to host Gondrezick on a birthday trip to Brazil. And gifting her expensive Chanel bags and Christian Louboutin shoes. Their romance appeared to be flourishing, filled with romantic gestures and quality time. However, after being spotted together at New York Fashion Week in September, Gondrezick’s absence during Brown’s 28th birthday party ignited the buzz.

Jaylen Brown Recently Addressed Trade Rumors and Draft Boos

While Jaylen Brown remains steadfast in his duties, he recently opened up about the challenges he faced during his career in Boston. JB addressed his feelings regarding trade rumors and the unwelcoming reception he received on draft night.

Reflecting on those difficult moments, Brown noted that being a target of trade discussions and facing booing from fans did not deter him. Instead, it fueled his determination to do more and improve.

“Things have not gone my way and haven’t been catered to, in a sense, which has made me stronger. I think it has made me a better player, has driven me. I can complain, but in reality, it made me the best. So I’m grateful for it. Even if it was indirect, I know that it wasn’t intentional. It is what it is. It made me better,” Brown said, as per Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.

At just 28 years old, Brown has emerged as one of the NBA’s premier two-way players. Averaging nearly 23 points, six rebounds, and nearly five assists per game this season, he has earned recognition as a four-time All-Star.

Despite often being seen as the secondary option behind teammate Jayson Tatum, Brown demonstrated his crucial role during the Celtics’ championship run. He clinched MVP honors in both the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals.

Travis Kelce Has Sweet Mic’d Up Moment with Patrick Mahomes at End of What Could Be His Final Super Bowl

“I owe you a lot for what you’ve done,” Kelce told Mahomes

Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes share a hug following the 2025 Super Bowl. Photo: Randy Shropshire/Getty; NFL/x

Patrick Mahomes has a forever friend in Travis Kelce.

On Thursday, Feb. 13, the NFL released a short clip of the Kansas City Chiefs players sharing a sweet exchange following the Super Bowl LIX, during which their team lost to the Philadelphia Eagles 40-22.

In the mic’d up moment released by the league on X, Mahomes, 29, looks down at the ground as he walks to Kelce, 35, to dap his hand and say, “Love you, brother.”

He then hugs Kelce, who responds, “Forever dawg. You know that.” As they continue to embrace, Kelce adds, “I owe you a lot for what you’ve done.”

Various fans replied to the video asking, “Is Travis retiring???”

“This sure makes it feel like that was the last run. Hell of a run it was,” another fan wrote.

The tight end addressed rumors that he is heading toward retirement, following his brother Jason’s retirement in 2024, on the Wednesday, Feb. 12 edition of their New Heights podcast.

“I know everybody wants to know whether or not I’m playing next year, and right now, I’m just kicking everything down the road. I’m not making any crazy decisions,” said Kelce, who has been part of the Chiefs organization since 2013.

Travis Kelce during the 2025 Super Bowl.Kevin Sabitus/Getty

The tight-end has three Super Bowl wins, all with the Chiefs. This season, he continued to break records, including becoming the tight end with the third-most receiving yards in NFL history in November.

However, Kelce shared on his podcast that the most important thing for him and his teammates now following the Sunday, Feb. 9 loss is “being there” for each other and “understanding.”

He also assured listeners that he wasn’t rushing toward making a decision.

Travis Kelce during the 2025 Super Bowl.Kevin Sabitus/Getty

“I’m gonna take some time to figure it out. And, I think I owe it to my teammates that if I do come back, it’s a wholehearted decision. I’m not half-assing it, and I’m fully here for them,” he said.

As for whether Mahomes, the star quarterback for the Chiefs and longtime friend of Kelce, believes he should retire, he told reporting following the Super Bowl that he will “let Travis make that decision on his own.”

“He’s given so much to this team and to the NFL. And he’s been such a joy, not only for me to work with, but for people to watch,” Mahomes said, noting that “he knows he still has a lot of football left in him.”

Chiefs give Travis Kelce deadline on decision to retire: report

Kelce says he is ‘kicking every can I can down the road’

Travis Kelce all but admitted this week he is contemplating retiring after 12 NFL seasons. Apparently, the Kansas City Chiefs don’t want to wait very long for his decision.

The star tight end just played in his third consecutive Super Bowl and, at age 35, he has not much left to accomplish in what is sure to be a Hall of Fame career.

Well, the Chiefs have reportedly given him a soft deadline of “around March 14” to make his decision, according to The Athletic.

The date makes sense, as it’s two days after free agency officially begins, but arguably more importantly, his $11.5 million roster bonus is due the next day.

A report from NFL.com on Super Bowl eve said Kelce was “expected to take time after the Super Bowl, consider his future and make a decision before free agency.”

On the latest episode of his “New Heights” podcast he co-hosts with his future Hall of Fame brother Jason, he said he is “kicking every can I can down the road.”

“I am not making any crazy decisions, but right now the biggest thing is just being there for my teammates and being there for my coaches, understanding there’s a lot that goes into this thing. I’ve been fortunate over the past five, six years, I’ve played more football than anybody,” Kelce said. “The fact that we keep going to these AFC Championships and Super Bowls, that means I’m playing an extra three games more than everybody else in the entire league. That’s a lot of wear and tear on your body.”

“It’s a lot of time in the building. … That process can be grueling. It can weigh on you. It can make you better, and it can drive you crazy,” he added. “Right now, it was one of those things where it was driving me crazy this year. It happens as you tail off toward the back nine of your career.”

With the Chiefs’ success over the last eight seasons, Kelce has played 25 playoff games, adding nearly a season and half worth of games to the 175 regular-season games he has played in his career.

Clips of Kelce’s apparent lack of effort in the Super Bowl have gone viral, with fans thinking he’s rather checked out.

Among tight ends in NFL history, Kelce ranks third in catches (1,004) and yards (12,151) and fifth in touchdowns (77). That comes despite 11 tight ends, including those ahead of him in those prior categories, playing more games than him. For reference, Tony Gonzalez, who leads in catches and yards, played in 270 games, 95 more than Kelce.

However, it’s clear that he’s not his All-Pro self anymore. This season marked the first time since 2015 in which Kelce played in at least 16 games and failed to reach the 1,000-yard mark. He also scored only three touchdowns in the regular season, the lowest mark of his career outside his one-game rookie season where he didn’t take an offensive snap before undergoing knee surgery.

If Super Bowl LIX was the final time fans saw Kelce on the field, it’s certainly the end of a legendary career. Kelce has made 10 Pro Bowls and was either a First- or Second-Team All-Pro seven times.

Fox News’ Ryan Canfield contributed to this report.

Nike unveils Caitlin Clark billboard in city where Angel Reese’s team is based, inciting mockery from fans

Many of Clark’s fans used the new billboard as an opportunity to mock Reese

The Caitlin Clark marketing machine has expanded into enemy territory.

Nike unveiled its latest Clark billboard in Chicago this week at 157 W. Chicago Ave. The billboard is 3½ miles away from Wintrust Arena, home to the Chicago Sky and Clark’s rival, Angel Reese.

The placement of the billboard, taking up real estate in Reese’s city, sparked reaction from fans on social media due to the contentious history between the players.

Many of Clark’s fans have used the new billboard as an opportunity to mock Reese.

Clark and Reese have been linked to one another since they first met in the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball championship. Reese mocked Clark at the end of that game when her LSU Tigers defeated Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes for the title, pointing to her finger in a taunting fashion to remind her who was getting a ring.

This sparked outrage from Clark’s fan base, including Bartstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, who called Reese “a piece of s—” in a widely circulated X post after Reese’s gesture in the championship game.

They carried their rivalry into the pros this year. Their four matchups included a series of controversial flagrant fouls against Clark by Reese and other Sky players. Reese smacked Clark in the head with her arm while trying to block a shot in their first WNBA meeting June 1.

One of Reese’s teammates, Diamond DeShields, posted screenshots of hateful comments she got after knocking Clark to the floor in their last meeting of the season Aug. 30.

Clark and Reese have never acknowledged there is a feud between them. They’ve only made respectful comments about one another to the media. But the fans are a different story. The two groups have been notorious for attacking one another and the two players on social media since the 2023 NCAA championship game.

Reese has said Clark’s fans have sent her death threats and made explicit AI images of her and sent them to her family.

“I think it’s really just the fans, her fans, the Iowa fans, now the Indiana fans, that are really just, they ride for her, and I respect that, respectfully. But sometimes it’s very disrespectful. I think there’s a lot of racism when it comes to it,” Reese said in the first episode of her podcast Sept. 5.

Now, Clark has notched an off-the-court win in the rivalry with her new billboard.

In April 2024, Caitlin Clark signed an eight-year, $28 million endorsement deal with Nike. The deal includes a signature shoe and is the most lucrative shoe deal in women’s basketball history.

The new billboard is a continuation of Nike’s advertising campaign it launched with its first Super Bowl ad in 27 years Sunday.

The one-minute “So Win” spot is an all-female commercial that celebrates nine high-profile women athletes, including Clark, Jordan Chiles, Sha’Carri Richardson, JuJu Watkins and A’ja Wilson.

However, the campaign has also drawn criticism. Critics were quick to call out Nike for its company stance supporting transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.

 

Brittany Mahomes Shares Cute Milestone Moment for Kids Sterling and Bronze: ‘First Haircut’

In the Mahomes household, every milestone is a cause for celebration, and Brittany Mahomes just shared an adorable moment marking a big step for her two children, Sterling and Bronze. The proud mom posted pictures on social media revealing that both of her kids have officially had their first haircuts, and the results are absolutely heartwarming.

Fans of Patrick Mahomes and his wife Brittany have followed their parenting journey closely, and this sweet family moment is no exception. Sterling, the couple’s older daughter, and Bronze, their younger son, are growing up fast, and this milestone moment highlights just how quickly they are reaching new stages in their young lives. Let’s take a closer look at this special moment and the precious photos Brittany shared with her followers.

**A Milestone Moment: Sterling and Bronze’s First Haircuts**

The first haircut is a major milestone for any child, and for the Mahomes family, it was a moment to be shared with their followers. Brittany Mahomes posted the adorable photos on her social media account, giving fans an inside look into her family’s life. The pictures show Sterling and Bronze with their fresh new haircuts, both looking absolutely adorable as they flaunt their new looks.

Sterling, who is the Mahomes’ older daughter, now sports a shorter, more grown-up hairstyle that matches her vibrant personality. Her new look is simple yet stylish, and it’s clear that she’s growing up fast. Meanwhile, Bronze, still a toddler, looks just as cute with his playful new cut, marking another big milestone in his young life.

Brittany shared her excitement in the post, writing, “First haircut for both Sterling and Bronze! They’re growing up so fast,” along with heartwarming emojis to capture the sweetness of the moment.

**Fans React to the Adorable Photos**

As expected, the photos of Sterling and Bronze’s first haircuts quickly went viral, garnering hundreds of thousands of likes and comments. Fans couldn’t get enough of the adorable siblings and their new looks, with many expressing how fast they are growing.

One fan commented, “They are getting so big! I can’t believe how cute they look with their new haircuts. So sweet.” Another added, “Sterling and Bronze are growing up so fast! Both of them look perfect, but Sterling’s little short haircut is just too cute.”

Fans of the Mahomes family continue to be captivated by Sterling and Bronze’s milestones, and this first haircut moment is no different. Brittany’s openness in sharing these family moments with her followers has allowed fans to feel connected to the family’s journey, and they love seeing the children grow and thrive.

 

**Brittany and Patrick Mahomes: Parenting in the Spotlight**

As public figures, Brittany and Patrick Mahomes are no strangers to the spotlight, but they have managed to keep their family life relatively private. The couple has shared glimpses of their children on social media, including moments like their birthdays, family vacations, and sporting events. But despite being in the public eye, the Mahomes family has kept a down-to-earth and relatable approach to parenting.

Brittany, in particular, has made a point of sharing the everyday moments that many parents can relate to, and the milestone of Sterling and Bronze’s first haircuts is just another example of that. While their family is in the public eye due to Patrick’s career in the NFL, Brittany has always ensured that her children’s privacy and well-being are prioritized.

The couple’s commitment to being loving and involved parents is clear, and it’s evident that they cherish every moment with their kids.

**What’s Next for Sterling and Bronze?**

As Sterling and Bronze continue to grow up in front of the cameras, fans can expect many more milestones to come. Whether it’s sporting new looks, celebrating birthdays, or attending Patrick’s Chiefs games, the Mahomes family’s journey is far from over. Fans of the family are excited to see what’s next for the young siblings as they continue to develop their unique personalities and create more special moments with their parents.

Patrick and Brittany’s dedication to their children and their commitment to raising them in a loving and supportive environment is evident in every post they share. As Sterling and Bronze hit new milestones, fans will no doubt continue to celebrate alongside the Mahomes family.

Sterling and Bronze’s first haircuts are a cute milestone moment that fans of the Mahomes family can’t stop talking about. Brittany’s heartfelt post capturing the special moment perfectly showcases the joy of watching her children grow up. As Sterling and Bronze continue to thrive and reach new milestones, there’s no doubt that their journey will remain a heartwarming and cherished part of the Mahomes family’s story. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in their young lives, as the Mahomes family continues to share their beautiful journey with the world.

A woman with big heart! Taylor Swift’s post-Grammys gesture proves she is the ultimate class act

Taylor Swift has once again shown why she’s not just a global music icon but also one of the most gracious celebrities in the industry.

Despite receiving six nominations at the 2025 Grammy Awards, Swift walked away without a win. But true to form, she didn’t let it dampen her spirit. Instead, she cheered on her fellow artists, embodying the supportive and humble attitude that her fans adore.

And if that wasn’t enough to remind the world of her authenticity, what happened after the ceremony made an even bigger statement.

A Small Act, A Big Impact

Following the Grammys, Swift attended an exclusive afterparty, where she once again proved that kindness is second nature to her. As she left the event, a now-viral fan video captured a touching moment—Taylor personally thanking the venue staff and handing out tips to several employees.

While some stars rush past the people working behind the scenes, Swift made sure they felt appreciated. And in a world where celebrity behavior is constantly scrutinized, these small, genuine acts speak volumes about her character.

Fans flooded social media with praise, calling out her humility and the way she always acknowledges those who make events like these possible.

At a time when the entertainment industry can often feel detached, Swift continues to set herself apart.

Travis Kelce Talks About Feeling ‘Helpless and Heartbroken’ as Taylor Swift Faces Public Backlash Over Their Romance…more details below

Travis Kelce Talks About Feeling ‘Helpless and Heartbroken’ as Taylor Swift Faces Public Backlash Over Their Romance…more details below

Following the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, Taylor Swift faced public backlash, including being booed by fans during the game. Travis Kelce, who had a subpar performance with only four catches for 39 yards, was reportedly “heartbroken” and “helpless” about the situation.

In the aftermath, Kelce and Swift have been seen offering each other support. A source revealed that they plan to spend quality time together away from the public eye, reflecting on their relationship and future.

Despite the challenges, including public scrutiny and the Chiefs’ loss, the couple appears to be navigating these hurdles together. Their mutual support suggests a strong bond, with both focusing on their personal connection amidst external pressures.

While rumors continue to circulate, there is no official confirmation of a breakup. Fans are advised to await statements from Swift and Kelce before drawing conclusions.

Saquon Barkley didn’t like hearing fans boo Taylor Swift at the Super Bowl

Eagles fans loudly supported their team at Super Bowl LIX, but Eagles running back Saquon Barkley didn’t like one thing he heard from the crowd.

Taylor Swift was at the game to support Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, and when she was shown in the stadium, the Philly fans booed. Barkley said in an interview with Howard Stern that he wasn’t happy about that.

“I remember that they showed her on the jumbotron and she got booed,” Barkley said. “I don’t get it. I don’t get why she was getting hate there.”

Barkley said football fans should appreciate that Swift’s popularity generates interest from Swifties who otherwise wouldn’t watch the NFL.

“She’s there supporting her significant other and she’s made the game bigger,” Barkley said. “We’re all about, in football, we’re all about how can we expand the game and make it more internationally and we’re traveling to Brazil and we’re traveling to Mexico, and apparently we’re traveling to Australia soon, so we’re trying to expand the game and her being a part of it’s only helping that, so I don’t get the slack that she’s getting.”

Barkley made clear, however, that he loves Philly fans.

“They just shower you with love,” Barkley said. “And it’s been pretty cool for me and my family ‘cause kind of how things ended in New York, there was always love and support there, but things didn’t end off on a great note, I guess you could say. And to be able to come here and just the way how they’ve taken me in and my family in, and my daughter is the star here. They love my little daughter. So it’s been pretty cool.”

The only player in NBA history to average 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists for 3 seasons. That’s the record Giannis Antetokounmpo is heading towards, with a team back to the winning ways at that. But is there a need for him to get a reality check? Well, that’s what Shaquille O’Neal believes. The former NBA star weighed in on Giannis’ recent performance and Milwaukee Bucks’ chances at the championship during an episode of Inside the NBA.

The discussion on the show started with Ernie Johnson highlighting how The Greek Freak is set to surpass Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson, who averaged 30, 10, and 5 in two seasons. “You know, sometimes, Ernie, even if you’re a great player, sometimes you have to be brought back down to reality,” Shaq chimed in, noting that while Giannis is exceptional, the Bucks are running with a few flaws, needing him to step up. “They [Bucks] started off slow… They’re playing well. He [Giannis] knows what he has to do.”

Further adding to his chain of thought, Big Diesel highlighted the next championship is more of Antetokounmpo’s job and responsibility than Doc Rivers. “It’s his job… to get the guys on track, playing well. And they’ve been doing that. Great player right there. But do they have enough to win the championship? I say no,” O’Neal said.

Charles Barkley, too, completely agreed with Shaquille O’Neal’s opinion of the Bucks’ chances at the championship. “I love this kid [Giannis]… But they got to get more athletic on the perimeter. They have two guys who are athletic and then that’s it…” Barkley said. He emphasized that with their current setup, just one athletic guy, the Bucks won’t be able to beat the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, or the Orlando Magic when they’re healthy.

via Imago

“Dame’s [Damian Lillard] a great player, but he’s not a really athletic guy… The way the game is played, your wing defenders have to be terrific and they don’t have it,” Chuck added. Kenny Smith, however, had a different take on this. He stated the way the Bucks played in recent weeks, which included winning seven games in a row, is “who they are. This is the team you’re gonna have to play come playoff time.”

Smith even countered Barkley’s claim, stating the Bucks even have a chance at beating the Knicks and Celtics. Yes, the Bucks had a terrible 2-8 start to the season, but now they have surged to a 12-11 record. And they’ve won all their games in the Emirates Cup — the rebranded in-season tournament. Despite the potential, however, it’s not just Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley who doubt Giannis’ chances at the championship.

“No fixes”: 55YO sportswriter points out the grave concern with Bucks

When the Bucks had a rough start to the season, it left fans questioning if this team can truly contend for a title. Among some other names, NBA analyst Bill Simmons didn’t think so. In fact, his brutally honest take might hit the Bucks supporters quite hard. Speaking on The Bill Simmons Podcast, the veteran sportswriter didn’t hold back.

“They have an awesome big man, they have an aging offensive star that doesn’t play defense, they have nobody else on the team who could play defense, and they have no bench,” Simmons said. “Unlike the Lakers, there is no fixes… I don’t see any conceivable way that this team is a contender. It’s really rough and with no fixes.” 

Ouch. For a team that just added Damian Lillard to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo, that’s not what anyone expected. But Simmons might have a point. Milwaukee has almost nothing to work with for a trade—just one tradable first-round pick in 2031 and a second-rounder. On top of that, they’re over the second apron, meaning they can’t take back extra salary or combine contracts to make deals.

So, where does that leave the Bucks? If you were hoping for a blockbuster trade to fix their defensive woes and lack of depth, think again. It’s not just about their record—it’s about the limited tools they have to improve. Something that Barkley highlighted while agreeing with Shaquille O’Neal’s recent take on the Bucks.