Giannis Antetokounmpo’s long-term future in Milwaukee remains unresolved, and league executives are increasingly monitoring the Los Angeles Lakers as a team of interest from the superstar’s perspective. The development was reported by veteran NBA insider Howard Beck as the trade deadline approaches.
Beck reported that the Lakers have emerged as a franchise to “keep an eye on” from Antetokounmpo’s standpoint, though he emphasized that structural obstacles remain. Trade assets, timing, and roster clarity are central factors in whether Los Angeles could realistically enter the mix.
“I was told recently that the Lakers were a team to keep an eye from Giannis’ standpoint just as another team of interest,” Beck said on The Zach Lowe Show, via HoopsHype. He added that asset limitations and offseason variables complicate any immediate pathway.
Milwaukee enters deadline week at 18-27, sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference with limited upward mobility. The Bucks are nine games under .500 and face increasing pressure to pivot toward a future-oriented direction.
Antetokounmpo, now 31, continues to perform at an elite level despite the team’s struggles. He is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game while shooting 64.5% from the field in 30 appearances this season.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Milwaukee’s front office is prioritizing a return centered on young high-end talent and draft capital rather than veteran help. That stance aligns with the franchise’s current standing and long-term outlook.
The Lakers present a complicated case. Los Angeles is 28-18 and sixth in the Western Conference, anchored by Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. However, Beck noted that clarity around James’ future and Reaves’ free agency is essential before meaningful discussions could take shape.
From a cap perspective, Los Angeles has limited flexibility this season and sits near the first apron. The Lakers’ draft capital improves in the summer, which Beck identified as a potential turning point rather than the current deadline window.
On the court, Antetokounmpo’s fit alongside Doncic would be significant from a basketball standpoint. Milwaukee’s forward provides rim pressure, transition scoring, and defensive versatility, complementing a ball-dominant creator.
Several other teams remain ahead in practical trade positioning, including Golden State, Minnesota, New York, and Miami. Each can assemble draft-heavy offers without relying on short-term contracts.
