Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic (77) and LeBron James, center, right, hug and celebrate late in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Discussions concerning whether the Los Angeles Lakers should trade Luka Doncic for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the star of the Milwaukee Bucks, are escalating NBA trade rumours. Giannis’ unclear future with the Bucks has been the subject of increased debate after the Lakers acquired Doncic in February 2025, leading fans and commentators to consider the possible advantages of such a big-ticket purchase. The main topic of discussion is the disparity in ages and ability levels between Doncic and Antetokounmpo. Doncic, who is 26 years old, is known for his exceptional playmaking and scoring skills and carries little long-term risk.
On the other hand, despite questions over his physical deterioration and total mileage, Antetokounmpo, who is currently 30 years old, is regarded as a dominant two-way player. According to analysts, Doncic’s youth and long-term prospects are more compatible with the Lakers having a consistent window for championships.
Doncic and LeBron James make a tempting combination, but the Milwaukee Bucks have already rejected a Doncic trade offer. Negotiations are complicated by the Bucks’ hesitancy because they might not think Doncic would make a good focal point in a trade.
The Lakers may look at other options if a direct trade for Giannis does not work out. A transaction centred on rookie Dalton Knecht and Austin Reaves, combined with draft selections, is one suggestion. This strategy might not, however, match competing offerings. Analysts also point out that since Los Angeles lacks the resources to participate in a bidding war, only Giannis’ trade request may make a Lakers move feasible.
The Lakers may want to wait for the chance to sign Giannis before he becomes a free agent in 2026 so they can keep their core players intact. Right now, the Lakers’ best course of action seems to be to build around Doncic and look into small upgrades.
Although there is no denying the appeal of assembling a superteam with Doncic and Antetokounmpo, the possible price of such a trade might be prohibitive. According to analysts, the Lakers may be better off sticking with Doncic’s skill set and trajectory to achieve long-term success.