The Los Angeles Lakers believe they would be on a short list of preferred destinations if Giannis Antetokounmpo requests a trade from the Milwaukee Bucks this offseason, with their potential offer expected to center around three future first-round draft picks.
The Los Angeles Lakers believe they could have a real chance to land Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason, according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN.
Los Angeles Lakers / Schedule
"The Lakers, team sources told ESPN, obviously see the appeal in Antetokounmpo and believe they would be one of the teams on a very short list if the Bucks star asks for a trade out of Milwaukee," McMenamin reported.
A Western Conference executive also told ESPN that Antetokounmpo is the "big prize" the Lakers hope to pursue if the Milwaukee Bucks decide to move on from their franchise superstar and 2021 NBA Finals MVP.
However, a trade is far from guaranteed. Despite ongoing speculation, there is no certainty that Giannis will be dealt.
The Lakers understand that Milwaukee could use the offseason to improve the roster and convince him to sign an extension, which he becomes eligible for on October 1, rather than trade him.
Credit Scanpix
Still, Los Angeles may have a stronger trade package in the offseason than it did before the February 5 deadline.
The centerpiece of a potential offer would be three future first-round draft picks – assets that could become especially attractive if the Bucks decide to fully reset their roster after Antetokounmpo.
For his part, Giannis has made it clear that his priority is competing for another championship.
Before the February 5 deadline, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Golden State Warriors were reportedly the most aggressive teams pursuing him. However, the Bucks were never seriously open to trading their longtime star.
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