NEW YORK — The Milwaukee Bucks are facing a rocky start to the new season, and no one is feeling the pressure more than their star forward, Giannis Antetokounmpo. After a crushing 116-94 defeat to the New York Knicks, Antetokounmpo did not hold back, expressing his dissatisfaction with both the team's effort and their glaring lack of competitiveness on the court.

This loss marks the Bucks' seventh defeat in just nine games, a disheartening trend that could lead to a season filled with challenges if things don't change soon. However, Antetokounmpo’s ire was less about the scoreboard and more about the team’s attitude during the game. “Did we compete today? No. That’s something you can control,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a stronger competitive spirit within the team.

The Bucks, missing key players like Khris Middleton (out after bilateral ankle surgery) and Gary Trent (suffering from back spasms), have struggled to find their rhythm. Coach Doc Rivers has been searching for consistency and energy among the rotations, experimenting with strategies to energize the squad. In Friday's game, he kept Antetokounmpo on the floor for the entire first quarter, but the team fell behind 32-25, allowing the Knicks to dominate on offensive rebounds.

Antetokounmpo further lamented the shortcomings of the game, particularly the effort displayed. “You compete your ass off, and you might still lose, but at least you give yourself a chance. We didn’t compete at all. That’s the bottom line,” he said, highlighting the intensity the Knicks brought to the game under head coach Tom Thibodeau.

With the Bucks struggling on defense — particularly on the boards, where they gave up critical second-chance points — they appeared overwhelmed against a Knicks squad determined to fight for every possession. The Bucks’ defense was noticeably lackluster, allowing players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges to exploit gaps and capitalize on offensive rebounds.

Antetokounmpo's frustrations didn't end on the defensive end; the team's offensive execution was equally poor. After a solid outing against the Utah Jazz, the Bucks looked lost, unable to find their rhythm against the physicality of the Knicks defense. As Damian Lillard noted, the team struggled to secure their positions on the court and mustered only 74 points through three quarters.

As losses pile up, Antetokounmpo understands it’s time for internal reflection and grit. “We have to come out with the mentality that we have to compete for every possession. One possession at a time,” he reiterated, imploring his teammates to be more accountable and motivated.

Despite the setbacks, Antetokounmpo is clear on the role of accountability within the team. He supports Coach Rivers in his efforts to motivate and refine their strategies, but the path forward ultimately rests on the shoulders of the players. “You gotta empower your teammates. You gotta be honest with them,” he urged. “At the end of the day, win or lose, you have to come into the next game with the same mentality.”

As the Bucks prepare to face the Boston Celtics in just two days, the urgency to turn the tide is palpable. With Antetokounmpo leading by example, both he and the team are resolved to come out with a sense of purpose and determination. “If you’re not frustrated with losing, get the f— out of here,” he declared, affirming that only through hard work and perseverance can they hope to change their fortunes this season.

The question remains: will the Bucks muster the competitive spirit needed to turn this season around? Only time will tell.