As the 2026 NBA offseason approaches, all eyes remain fixed on Milwaukee Bucks' superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although he wasn't traded during the 2025-26 season, the buzz around potential extensions and the interest from contenders with more draft capital will likely reignite trade talks.
Should the Antetokounmpo sweepstakes resume, the Los Angeles Lakers might find themselves in a strategic position, benefiting from other teams' hesitance to make moves. While the Lakers could make a play for Giannis, they might also explore other avenues. With newfound cap space and a roster that needs more than just a new co-star for Luka Doncic, their options are wide open.
Pairing Antetokounmpo with Doncic would undoubtedly be electrifying, but the Lakers could also focus on building depth, youth, and balance through free agency. If Giannis' future remains uncertain, and teams hold off on trades to keep options open with Milwaukee, the Lakers could swoop in to sign talent that others are waiting on.
The 2026 free-agent class might not be filled with superstars, but it offers a wealth of quality players. Defensive stalwarts like Luguentz Dort, Ayo Dosunmu, and Andrew Wiggins could be on the market. Given the Lakers' defensive struggles-they're ranked 23rd in defensive rating-these players could be exactly what they need.
Additionally, the Lakers should consider pursuing restricted free agents like 2026 All-Star center Jalen Duren, 3-and-D ace Tari Eason, shot-blocker Walker Kessler, and rising star Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets. Even players like Quentin Grimes, an unrestricted free agent, could provide valuable wing support.
While none of these players match Giannis' impact, they could help the Lakers build a more robust supporting cast. This shift would complement Doncic better, transitioning from the remnants of the Anthony Davis era.
If the Lakers prioritize depth over chasing Antetokounmpo, they should seize the moment to capitalize on opportunities that others might overlook, setting the stage for a dynamic offseason strategy.