The Los Angeles Lakers may find themselves with an opportunity to sign one of the biggest names in basketball, Giannis Antetokounmpo, but only if the timing is right.
The two-time MVP has reportedly shown interest elsewhere, but Jovan Buha believes the Lakers could become a surprise trade destination in the future if the Bucks star becomes more frustrated with the team's direction.
“I think it's interesting that the Lakers are positioning themselves as a future cap space team and a future offseason team. [2025] That offseason, and then there was a shift later in the offseason after EuroBasket, and it turned out they were now willing to make trades, willing to take long-term money,” Buha said.
Antetokounmpo has made it clear he wants to win, something Milwaukee hasn't done since winning the title in 2021.
Buha added that the purple and gold may eventually make a move, but timing is key.
“Giannis has left the door open, but we've had reports since then that Giannis' preferred destination was the Knicks, not the Lakers,” he said. “It's hard to find a trade for the Knicks and Giannis, so if for some reason that doesn't happen and Milwaukee refuses to play New York … then the Lakers could swoop in and potentially offer a competitive package. They would have three players [first-round] Draft pick next summer. So what can you do with Austin and three picks, Dalton and Rui, maybe a sign-and-trade for Rui or something? “
Still, there are some hurdles. Reeves and Hachimura are both set to become unrestricted free agents next summer, meaning any deal would likely require a sign-and-trade agreement, and Reeves has already turned down a contract extension from the Lakers.
READ MORE: Why Bucks’ ideal trade for Giannis would fit Knicks, says Windhorst
