Former Rockets' guard could be ruining the Giannis Antetokounmpo saga for everyone

Just over a quarter of the way into the NBA season, almost everyone's eyes (including the Houston Rockets') are on the unfolding saga of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks as the superstar contemplates his future with the organization that he has called his home for all 13 seasons of his career.

Yet, no matter what decision is ultimately made about Antetokounmpo's future, his availability this season depends entirely upon the Bucks' continued plummet down the Eastern Conference Standings, and, as former Rockets guard Kevin Porter Jr. has given the team a boost upon his return from injury, he could ruin that dream for every team in the NBA.

With Antetokounmpo out indefinitely with a calf strain, Milwaukee is facing a very real scenario of finding themselves well out of playoff contention by the time their star returns. Yet, if they can tread water in the meantime, the NBA may need to wait even longer for Antetokounmpo to become available.

Kevin Porter Jr could be the Bucks' saving grace as they face down a stretch that will define their franchise

Since the news broke that Antetokounmpo could become available this season, mock trades and speculation have abounded. Yet, one thing, throughout the years-long saga surrounding an Antetokounmpo trade, has become abundantly clear. As long as he feels that, through some miracle, he can lead Milwaukee to another championship, he is going to stay put.

This season, however, the team is off to a rough, 10-15 start, and things are about to get even tougher in Antetokounmpo's absence. The Bucks have a -12.2 net rating with Giannis off the court this season, and they are 0-7 when he does not play.

Even in a wide open Eastern Conference, this season looks bleak for the Bucks.

Yet, Porter Jr., who is returning from a meniscus tear that has kept him out of action since the season opener, has looked like a player who can help the team stay afloat in Antetokounmpo's absence, and that could make all the difference in whether or not the superstar decides to force the issue this season.

Through the five games since his return, Porter Jr. is averaging 24.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 6.6 asssists while shooting 61.3% from beyond the arc. As of now, he is starting in the backcourt alongside Ryan Rollins as AJ Green heals from a shoulder contusion.

Granted, the Bucks are not good even with Porter playing at the level that he is, and Rockets' fans know from his tenure in Houston that these scoring numbers are likely not sustainable. Yet, if the Bucks can somehow continue to float around the .500 mark until Giannis returns, the rest of the NBA could have another painful wait in store to see the ultimate outcome of the Antetokounmpo saga.