Lakers Trying To Land Giannis Antetokounmpo This Summer

The 2026 NBA trade deadline was the biggest in history, with star players, role players, and draft picks switching teams at a record rate. One name that everyone thought would be traded was Giannis Antetokounmpo, yet the Milwaukee Bucks star forward remained with the only NBA team he has played for when the February 5 deadline came and went. However The Greek Freak trade saga is far from over, and with no surprise, the Los Angeles Lakers might be the most interesting team on the board. 

Milwaukee made the right choice when they ultimately held onto their franchise cornerstone through the February deadline, deciding they'd rather wait for a bigger return in the summer. While this was upsetting news for several potential suitors hoping to add the All-NBA forward to their championship aspirations this season, for the Lakers, it may have been news that could fast-track their own quest for a title under the Luka Doncic era. 

Marc Stein reported that the Lakers "would indeed become a very viable threat to land No. 34 in the summer,"  especially because they've intentionally protected their cap flexibility by avoiding long-term salary commitments at the deadline. It's a calculated bet asking for patience in what could be LeBron James final season for success down the road. 

During an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews during All-Star Weekend, Antetokounmpo opened up about growing up dreaming of playing for iconic franchises and competing for another championship, name-dropping the Lakers, not necessarily as a trade demand, but as a potential glimpse into his future destination. While it was likely a casual comment, it has lit a spark for the summer of 2026. 

The real question is whether the Lakers can actually put together a package that beats out other potential suitors such as the Knicks, Warriors, and Timberwolves. A deal built around Austin Reaves in a sign-and-trade, plus three first-round picks and significant cap relief, is being floated as a potentially compelling offer for Milwaukee, especially when one considers the Bucks' salary cap issues.

The Lakers have a history of dynamic duos. Magic and Kareem, Shaq and Kobe, Kobe and Gasol, LeBron and Anthony Davis. Antetokounmpo and Doncic may almost seem too good to be true, but nothing is impossible in Los Angeles.