Lakers Fall Short in Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Pursuit

The Los Angeles Lakers are among the teams showing interest in Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason, but ESPN NBA Insider Shams Charania says they likely won't have the best offer. The Lakers are prepared to offer three first-round picks and cap space in exchange for Antetokounmpo, but Charania believes the Bucks will seek a stronger return.

Giannis, who is entering the final year of his contract, has been the subject of trade speculation since last season. The 27-year-old has averaged 27.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season. His performance has kept him in the MVP conversation, making his potential departure a major storyline for the NBA.

According to Charania, the Lakers could offer the Bucks cap space and absorb Giannis's $42 million contract for the 2025-26 season. However, the team would need to renounce most of their pending free agents, including LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, to create that space. James, 39, is set to command a max contract worth up to $51.2 million, while Hachimura is expected to land a deal worth around $15 million annually.

The Bucks are reportedly in talks with multiple teams, including the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics. A top offer could include multiple young players and second-round picks, which the Lakers are unlikely to match. The team’s current roster includes four players making over $18 million, limiting their flexibility.

The Lakers have a June 30 deadline to renounce James’ rights to free agency, but any trade for Giannis would likely be finalized before July 14, when free agency begins. The Bucks have no intention of keeping a one-year contract Giannis into the 2025-26 season, and they want a deal that secures their long-term future.

"Right now, what they'll be able to offer is three first-round picks and cap space, and essentially absorb Giannis's contract," Charania said. "Now, if you're the Bucks, are you just going to trade Giannis to the Lakers for cap space for three first-round picks? My sense is they're going to get better in the marketplace than that."

With the June 16 trade eligibility deadline approaching, the Bucks will evaluate all offers before making a decision. The Lakers remain in the mix but appear less likely to land one of the league's biggest stars.