As the NBA Trade deadline came and went, Milwaukee Bucks superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo remained stayed put, as the team opted to hold onto the two-time MVP and consider trade possibilities again during the offseason.
The Los Angeles Lakers stand to benefit from Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee for the rest of the 2025-26 season, as they lacked the assets to compete with other teams pursuing the perennial All-Star. By the offseason, the Lakers are likely to have additional trade pieces, allowing them to make a more compelling offer to the Bucks with the goal of eventually pairing Antetokounmpo alongside superstar Luka Doncic.
In an interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews that aired during NBA All-Star Weekend, Antetokounmpo spoke candidly about his future, offering intriguing thoughts on the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Is Giannis Antetokounmpo hinting at a Lakers team-up with LeBron James and Luka Doncic?
Feb 14, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Giannis Antetokounmpo speaks during interviews at media day at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
“Growing up, you dream, ‘Oh, what if I played for the Knicks, Madison Square Garden? What if I get drafted by the Lakers and I’m teammates with Kobe [Bryant]? What if I go play for the Cavs and LeBron [James] passes me the ball?’” remarked the Greek Freak.
“But this is my team, and I love it.”
Antetokounmpo isn’t explicitly saying he wants to be traded to the Lakers, Knicks, or Cavaliers, but he has clearly considered the possibility of playing for those teams. For now, it appears unlikely that he will publicly declare any desire to leave the Bucks, and that stance probably won’t shift.
Feb 15, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Team World forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on during the 75th NBA All Star Game at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
It appears only a matter of time before a move happens, with Los Angeles emerging as a possible destination if they can assemble the most appealing trade package during the offseason.
Although the Lakers’ chances to land Antetokounmpo have grown, they will face stiff competition from other suitors. The New York Knicks remain in the mix, along with teams that have previously been connected to the superstar, including the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves.