According to Fox Chicago’s Lou Canellis, Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic inquired with the team about the possibility of them acquiring Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I can tell you this for a fact,” Canellis said. “A few months ago, Giannis wanted to be traded. His first choice, New York with the Knicks. Knicks wouldn’t move off, would not offer more than just Karl-Anthony Towns and it just wasn’t going to work with the Milwaukee Bucks if they’re going to give up Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I can tell you that the Lakers inquired and Luka Dončić himself inquired, trying to see if the Lakers could work out a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. Now remember, Giannis wants to leave because he wants to win.”
More news: Massive Lakers Trade Idea Has LA Landing Giannis Antetokounmpo, Moving Five Role Players
The trade rumors regarding the two-time MVP were swirling in the summer months, and with the season a month and a half in, they have resurfaced again.
Antetokounmpo recently removed all references to the Bucks from his Instagram and Twitter accounts. Many suspected that this could be a prelude to a trade request; however, nothing has manifested in that regard as of yet.
Nonetheless, the trade rumors are back at the forefront, and there is a chance that Antetokounmpo could be moved even prior to the new year.
A potential trio of Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, and LeBron James would be incredibly enticing and could instantly push LA over the top. But the cost to make it happen would be steep.
Even if the Lakers managed to acquire the Greek Freak, there’s no guarantee he’d stay in LA beyond his current contract. His deal includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, meaning that if Antetokounmpo is traded to the Lakers, he’s locked in for at least a season and a half—unless a contract extension is agreed to beforehand.
More news: Lakers Land $50 Million All-Star Guard in Mega Three-Team Trade Idea
The Lakers might not be the frontrunner to land Antetokounmpo, but they should never be underestimated when it comes to trading for superstars.
Outside of winning titles, the Lakers are known for their ability to trade for superstars. It’s in their DNA.
Antetokounmpo is currently out for two-to-four weeks with a right calf strain. In the season, he is averaging 28.9 points per game, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting 63.9 percent from the field and 43.4 percent from three in 29.1 minutes of action and 17 games.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
