MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Bucks have sent a message to Giannis Antetokounmpo and their fans: They’re in it to win it.

That’s the best way to describe the trade for guard Damian Lillard. Lillard’s contract totals around $216 million over the next four years. The fourth year alone is over $63 million.

No one can accuse the Bucks of pinching pennies in pursuit of another NBA championship.

As of now, the Bucks will be without a first-round draft pick for several years. Consider it the cost of doing business.

On the plus side, the Bucks also kept any other Eastern Conference team — such as Miami Heat or Chicago Bulls — from getting Lillard.

Oddsmakers are already reacting, too. They’re moving the Bucks up the list of favorites to win the NBA title. In numerous circles, the Bucks will be the top favorite.

The Bucks deserve credit for realizing they had to do something after flaming out in the first round of the playoffs to the Heat.

First, Mike Budenholzer was fired as coach and replaced by Adrian Griffin.

Now, the Bucks have reshaped the roster by adding another star.

Something tells me the Bucks won’t have to worry about getting a shot off in the last seconds of a close game. That image still haunts me from the last game against the Heat at Fiserv Forum.

Holiday exits the Bucks

Albeit, saying goodbye to Jrue Holiday is no fun. He was a great teammate and citizen.

Along with his wife Lauren Holiday, Jrue Holiday poured himself into the Milwaukee community. The Holidays will be missed.

Jrue Holiday’s role in the 2021 Bucks championship — and specifically his part in the dramatic Game 5 play at Phoenix — will never be forgotten.

There are no guarantees in life or the NBA

For this thing to work, sacrifices will need to be made. That starts with alpha dogs Giannis and Lillard.

You can’t help but think that the Bucks are hoping the Lillard trade entices Giannis to stay long term.

Aiming high is admirable. Bring on the pressure and expectations.