The Los Angeles Lakers are viewed as a “very viable threat” to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks choose to delay trading the 31-year-old until the offseason, sources told Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
Los Angeles would look to use its projected salary cap flexibility as a key mechanism to help complete a deal for Antetokounmpo.
Earlier reports indicated that LeBron James, who is playing on a $52.6 million expiring contract, is also expected to stay with the Lakers beyond the trade deadline, preserving the team’s short-term continuity.
Milwaukee could opt to postpone any major decision on Antetokounmpo until the offseason in an effort to secure a high lottery pick.
The Bucks could then use that selection as a trade asset to acquire another star to pair with Antetokounmpo.
However, Milwaukee does not control its own 2026 first-round pick, as the Atlanta Hawks will receive the more favorable selection between the Bucks’ pick and one owed by the New Orleans Pelicans.
Lakers 'Viable Threat' To Trade For Giannis Antetokounmpo This Offseason https://t.co/s1lHzVkaUo
— RealGM (@RealGM) February 4, 2026
