After a recent New York Times article in which Giannis Antetokounmpo suggested he might leave the Milwaukee Bucks within the next few years, people around the NBA are speculating about which team he may end up with.
Of course, the Los Angeles Lakers are one of those teams. Antetokounmpo can opt out of his contract in 2025, which is the same year LeBron James’ current deal will run out.
But if Antetokounmpo gives the Bucks a clear indication he will leave, would they consider trading him before he hits free agency?
Former NFL star cornerback Richard Sherman, who is a co-host of Fox Sports 1’s “Undisputed,” said the Lakers should trade Anthony Davis for the Greek Freak (h/t Lakers Daily).
Giannis and LeBron James teaming up on the Lakers? đź‘€
@RSherman_25 puts together a blockbuster trade package for Lakers to land Giannis Antetokounmpo pic.twitter.com/ZvUd6DEfxj— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) August 30, 2023
“What do the Lakers have that they can move?” Sherman said. “Anthony Davis just signed a contract. Their numbers probably match up just right, and it’s the kind of thing Rob Pelinka would do. You can’t do it till December because he just signed an extension, but is that something that could happen? Giannis and LeBron James? There’s potential there.”
Obviously, the chances of such a trade happening are slim to none.
The Lakers just gave Davis a big, long-term contract extension, and they obviously plan on having him in the fold for at least the next few years.
In addition, there is no reason for them to give up a superstar like Davis for Antetokounmpo when they could simply sign the latter as a free agent in a couple of years. Doing so could ensure a seamless transition after James leaves.
Teaming up Antetokounmpo and James could be problematic, as the two’s skill sets are very redundant and may not mesh that well.