The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, are making headlines with their bold ambition to acquire superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks. According to a recent article published on Blogdebasket.com on May 14, 2025, the Lakers have devised a detailed plan to bring the “Greek Freak” to Los Angeles, but the cost is nothing short of staggering. Here’s a shocking breakdown of what the Lakers would need to make this blockbuster trade a reality.
Aiming for a Legendary “Big Three”
Following their disappointing first-round exit in the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves (4-1), the Lakers realized that their star duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic wasn’t enough to contend for a championship. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers are now targeting a historic “Big Three” featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, and Luka Doncic. If successful, this trade could create one of the most formidable trios in NBA history.
At 30 years old, Antetokounmpo remains at the peak of his powers, averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game in the past season. However, the Milwaukee Bucks’ consecutive first-round playoff losses, including a 4-1 defeat to the Indiana Pacers, have reportedly led the Greek superstar to consider his future.
A Massive Trade Package
To convince the Bucks to part with their cornerstone player, the Lakers would need to offer an enticing trade package. According to Blogdebasket.com, the Lakers may have to include key players and future draft picks. Players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber could be part of the deal to match Antetokounmpo’s hefty $54.1 million salary for the 2025-26 season. Additionally, promising young talent Dalton Knecht and a 2031 first-round draft pick might also be included.
However, pulling off this trade is no easy feat. The Bucks would demand significant assets to rebuild their roster, especially since they lack future draft picks (owning only a 2025 second-round pick). ESPN reports that teams like the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs could offer more compelling packages, including multiple draft picks and young stars like Jalen Green or Reed Sheppard.
Financial and Strategic Hurdles
One of the biggest obstacles for the Lakers is their financial situation. With a projected payroll exceeding the luxury tax threshold by $59.8 million next season, the Lakers would need to perform financial gymnastics to accommodate Antetokounmpo’s salary, which escalates to $57.6 million in 2026 and $62.2 million in 2027. Retaining both LeBron James and Luka Doncic while adding Giannis will require creative maneuvering from General Manager Rob Pelinka, who previously shocked the NBA by acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster deal in February 2025.
Moreover, the Lakers face stiff competition from other teams. According to Blogdebasket.com, Antetokounmpo has listed four preferred destinations if he leaves Milwaukee: the Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, and the Lakers. However, some sources suggest the Lakers’ chances hinge on LeBron James leaving the team, an unlikely scenario given “King James’” commitment to the franchise.
Opportunity or Pipe Dream?
Despite the Lakers’ advantages, including the allure of the Los Angeles market and the presence of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, their odds of landing Giannis remain slim. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst noted that the Lakers are unlikely to offer one of the top five or six trade packages unless Antetokounmpo explicitly requests a move to Los Angeles. In such a case, Giannis’ influence could pressure the Bucks to comply.
Former NBA player Carlos Boozer endorsed the idea, suggesting that pairing Giannis with Luka Doncic would create a perfect duo to contend for a championship. However, given the current landscape, the Lakers would need a miracle akin to their Luka Doncic trade to make this dream a reality.
Conclusion
The pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo is heating up basketball discussions worldwide. While the Lakers are prepared to offer a massive trade package, financial constraints, competition from other teams, and Antetokounmpo’s own preferences will determine whether the “Greek Freak” dons the purple and gold. Fans are left wondering if Rob Pelinka can once again work his magic to deliver another transformative moment for the Lakers.