Both the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors plan to contact the Milwaukee Bucks about trading for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in the coming weeks, but league insiders say neither franchise is viewed as a leading contender to complete a deal.
During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Lakers are not expected to include guard Austin Reaves in any sign-and-trade proposal. Without Reaves, Los Angeles has limited young assets to offer and can send Milwaukee a maximum of three first-round picks—2026, 2031 and 2033—because of the Stepien rule. Charania added that the Lakers’ package would primarily consist of those picks and enough cap space to absorb Antetokounmpo’s contract.
“If you’re the Bucks, are you just going to trade Giannis to the Lakers for cap space and three first-round picks? My sense is they’re going to get better in the marketplace than that,” Charania said, indicating clarity could come within the next six weeks.
The Warriors made a stronger push than the Lakers at February’s trade deadline, but Milwaukee rejected Golden State’s overtures. According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the Warriors’ current offer would still be headlined by draft capital—up to four first-rounders in 2026, 2028, 2030 (protected 1–20) and either 2032 or 2033—along with rookie guard Brandin Podziemski. Additional salary could involve Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler and/or Draymond Green; Moody and Butler are recovering from significant injuries, while Green holds a player option.
Speaking on 95.7 The Game, Slater said he does not believe Golden State ranks among the top three suitors for Antetokounmpo and noted that Miami’s deadline proposal appeared to intrigue Milwaukee the most. Slater also suggested the Warriors might ultimately keep the No. 11 pick in next month’s draft, aiming for an immediate contributor with long-term upside, and focus on acquiring “mid-prime” players after trading Andrew Wiggins to Miami at the 2025 deadline.
The Bucks have not publicly indicated they intend to move Antetokounmpo, who remains under contract through 2026-27.
Source: Hoops Rumors
