Luka Dončić moved to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster trade this past February. The move caught the basketball world off guard, as few expected Nico Harrison and the Dallas Mavericks to part ways with their franchise face. However, they apparently chose to prioritize defense and severed ties with Dončić.
Since then, Harrison found himself in trouble and was subsequently fired by the Mavericks. Despite his departure, Harrison will always be remembered as one of the key decision-makers who facilitated Dončić’s departure. Lakers fans remain grateful to Harrison for delivering one of the best players of this generation.
Will Giannis Antetokounmpo Join Luka Dončić?
Now, another generational player could be on the move. Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly interested in leaving the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2025-26 campaign, and reports suggest there are multiple potential outcomes. To make matters more interesting, rumors say the Greek star could join Dončić in Los Angeles.
According to Fox32 Chicago’s Lou Canellis, Dončić is reportedly interested in joining hands with Antetokounmpo. Canellis told 670 The Score last week, “A few months ago, Giannis wanted to be traded. His first choice, New York with the Knicks.”
“Knicks wouldn’t move off, would not offer more than just Karl-Anthony Towns, and it just wasn’t going to work with the Milwaukee Bucks if they’re going to give up Giannis Antetokounmpo,” Canellis said.
Latest intel from @ShamsCharania:
– Knicks won’t have exclusivity in potential Giannis trade talks
– Pistons, Hawks, Raptors expected to be suitors for Anthony Davis
– Mavs haven’t ruled out exploring offseason contract extension for AD
– Mavs open to exploring trades for Daniel…— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) December 9, 2025
NBA insider Jake Fischer also recently mentioned that the Knicks would no longer have exclusivity if they chose to make an offer for the former NBA champion. This leaves the door open for other teams, and Canellis claims Los Angeles was also interested in acquiring Antetokounmpo.
“I can tell you that the Lakers inquired and Luka Dončić himself inquired, trying to see if the Lakers could work out a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. Now remember, Giannis wants to leave because he wants to win,” Canellis said.
It would be a massive trade if Dončić and Antetokounmpo were to join forces; the Lakers would undoubtedly become a contender. If they manage to stay healthy, the European stars will surely help power Los Angeles toward its 18th NBA title.
However, the reality is that the Lakers do not currently have attractive draft capital to lure the Bucks into a deal. They do have multiple first-round picks to send Milwaukee’s way, but there’s a chance that offer may not be accepted.
If the Lakers can put together an attractive package of players and draft picks, the Bucks may be more inclined to agree to a deal in the future.
