The Los Angeles Lakers are setting the stage for what could be a blockbuster offseason, with Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially at the center of their plans. Despite a quiet trade deadline where they only added Luke Kennard and parted ways with Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick, the Lakers are gearing up for a significant move.
With over $50 million in cap space, the Lakers are poised to make a splash. If Rui Hachimura and LeBron James enter free agency, and Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart opt into their contracts, the Lakers could be looking at around $51 million in available funds. This financial flexibility opens doors for either signing a solid 3-and-D wing or making a run at a superstar.
An Eastern Conference executive emphasized the Lakers' need for defenders who can also shoot, a necessity given their struggles on the perimeter, especially with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves managing the backcourt.
The Lakers have options this offseason. Free agents like Andrew Wiggins, Tobias Harris, Quentin Grimes, and Dean Wade could fit their needs. While Wade and Grimes might be more budget-friendly, Wiggins and Harris bring proven experience to the table.
Yet, the Lakers are always in pursuit of top-tier talent, and Giannis Antetokounmpo is a name that stands out. Should the Milwaukee Bucks entertain trade talks, the Lakers could offer a package including three future first-round picks and possibly a sign-and-trade with Austin Reaves.
An anonymous Eastern Conference executive suggested the Lakers might just decide to go all-in for Giannis. It's a move that aligns with the franchise's history of chasing star power. When a player of Giannis’ caliber becomes available, the opportunity to acquire such a generational talent is one the Lakers would find hard to resist.