The Los Angeles Lakers could move to the front of the line for Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks postpone trade discussions until the offseason, according to league insider Marc Stein.
Antetokounmpo, widely viewed as the most prominent name still available ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, remains on Milwaukee’s roster while the Bucks weigh offers. Stein reported that the Lakers currently lack the assets to compete with in-season bidders but would become “a very viable threat” once additional draft capital becomes available this summer.
Los Angeles has only one tradable first-round pick before the deadline. Beginning in July, the club can access three first-rounders, potential pick swaps and multiple second-round selections. The Lakers are expected to keep their books clear this week to preserve salary-cap flexibility and maximize their ability to absorb Antetokounmpo’s contract—or another high-priced star—after the playoffs.
The franchise already has Luka Dončić under a long-term deal and views Austin Reaves, who returned Tuesday after a 19-game injury absence, as another core piece. Adding Antetokounmpo would give the Lakers a new frontcourt anchor without forcing Milwaukee to take back unwanted long-term salaries, an important consideration in any prospective deal.
This is not the first time Antetokounmpo has been linked to Los Angeles. Following a recent matchup at Crypto.com Arena, the two-time MVP praised LeBron James for his durability and leadership, calling the 21-year veteran “the blueprint for every athlete.”
For now, the Bucks must decide whether to accept an offer before the deadline or revisit scenarios in the summer—when the Lakers expect to have both the draft assets and the cap space to make a serious bid for No. 34.
Source: LakersNation.com
