The Lakers could be gearing up for a massive swing this offseason - and the name at the center of it all is Giannis Antetokounmpo.
According to league sources, Los Angeles is seen as a “viable threat” to trade for the Milwaukee Bucks superstar once the offseason hits. And when you look at the pieces they can put on the table, it’s easy to see why.
The Lakers are in position to offer up to three first-round picks in a potential deal for Antetokounmpo. That’s a significant haul, especially for a Bucks team that may be forced to consider its options if Giannis is truly ready for a new chapter.
On top of that, L.A. has the cap flexibility to absorb Antetokounmpo’s contract outright - meaning Milwaukee wouldn’t necessarily have to take back bloated or unwanted deals in return. That’s a rare advantage in today’s trade landscape.
Now, to be clear - the Lakers aren’t actively chasing Giannis at this moment. Other teams, including the Heat, Timberwolves, and Warriors, are currently more engaged in pursuit. But the Lakers are lurking, and their potential to make a serious offer is very real.
This all comes at a pivotal time for the franchise. LeBron James is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time since 2018.
Whether he decides to return, retire, or take his talents elsewhere remains to be seen. But his uncertain future only adds fuel to the speculation that the Lakers could be looking to reload in a major way.
The front office’s vision is clear: pair Luka Dončić - should they acquire him - with another elite-level talent. Antetokounmpo fits that mold perfectly.
He’s a two-time MVP, a Finals MVP, a Defensive Player of the Year, and a 10-time All-Star. This season, even while battling a right calf injury, he’s been his usual dominant self - averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over 30 games.
He’s expected to miss the next four to six weeks, but that hasn’t cooled interest from teams around the league.
And here’s a key detail: Giannis doesn’t have a no-trade clause. That means Milwaukee has full control over where he goes, should they decide to move him.
With the Bucks falling short in the playoffs for three straight years - all first-round exits - it’s no surprise that Antetokounmpo may be ready to explore a different path. At 29, he’s still in his prime and hungry to win.
Meanwhile, the Lakers have other roster decisions looming. Austin Reaves is expected to decline his player option and hit unrestricted free agency this summer. However, the expectation around the league is that L.A. will do what it takes to retain the versatile guard, who’s become a key piece of their core.
As for Giannis, he’s under contract for the next two seasons, with a massive $62.8 million player option in 2027-28. That’s a number fit for a player of his caliber - and a commitment the Lakers would likely be willing to make if it meant bringing a generational talent to Hollywood.
So while nothing is imminent, the chessboard is being set. If the Bucks open the door, the Lakers have both the assets and the ambition to walk through it.
Giannis in purple and gold? It’s not just a fantasy - it’s a scenario that could shape the next era of NBA basketball.