The Lakers are eager to go all out in their pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Bucks.
According to ESPN Insider Shams Charania, during an appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show,” he discussed what sacrifices the Lakers might need to make to secure Antetokounmpo.
Charania mentioned, “The Lakers showed interest in Giannis during the trade deadline. Currently, their best offer involves three first-round picks and absorbing Giannis’ contract.”
If a trade for Antetokounmpo goes through, the Lakers would have to give up their 25th pick in this year’s draft, along with two future unprotected first-round picks. This would help them manage their salary cap and fit Giannis into their financial plans.
At 31 years old, Antetokounmpo has two seasons remaining on his contract, plus a player option available after the 2026-27 season. His earnings are set at $58.5 million for the upcoming season and $62.3 million in the following year.
Charania also noted that the Lakers are keen on keeping LeBron James, who has been contemplating retirement, even in light of the possibility of bringing in Antetokounmpo.
Interestingly, Charania pointed out that while the Lakers might dream of assembling such a star-studded lineup, they need to persuade Antetokounmpo to actually play in Los Angeles—no small feat considering he has previously referred to the city as “superficial.”
Moreover, there’s a possibility that Milwaukee could receive a better trade offer from another team. “There might be other attractive options available for Milwaukee,” Charania remarked. “But if Antetokounmpo ends up in Los Angeles, it would certainly create a unique dynamic.”
