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Giannis Antetokounmpo Makes Knicks, Nikola Jokic Joke After Luka Doncic Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Brooks | Last updated Feb 3, 2025 10:33 AM ET

Two days after the fact, the NBA world is still in shock as Luka Doncic is a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Dallas Mavericks traded their franchise superstar and generational talent to the most popular franchise in the world.

Of course, the Mavericks returned Anthony Davis, but many believe the team could have gotten much more trade value.

The deal was so shocking that it was significantly less surprising when De'Aaron Fox was traded from the Sacramento Kings to the San Antonio Spurs, pairing him with Victor Wembanyama.

One big talking point is how the Lakers struggle mightily in building a competent roster around their situation -- as they have with LeBron James since capturing a title -- yet massive trades fall into their lap on occasion.

Reactions regarding the trade have continued to roll in, especially as players have held media availabilities.

Recently, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo reacted to the groundbreaking deal. While he initially went on a serious rant about the trade, he then lightened things up intentionally.

"I want Luka [Doncic] to the Lakers, I want [Nikola] Jokic to the Knicks. I want all the Europeans to go to all the big markets to see something incredible. This is my dream," Antetokounmpo said.

Giannis????????? https://t.co/VCIy4vGf2e pic.twitter.com/QQr54PEQDb
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) February 3, 2025

Of course, Antetokounmpo is joking. There is no reason to believe he wants to leave Milwaukee. For Jokic -- the same is true, there is no reason to believe he wants to leave the Denver Nuggets.

The Nuggets have a generational superstar, and there is no reason to believe he will be leaving the club nor would they ever trade him on their own terms.

Safe to say, Denver will be quite alright, even with Antetokounmpo's harmless joke. However, it does put into perspective how brutal the Mavericks' move was.

The New York Knicks would absolutely love for what Antetokounmpo said to be true, however, even with their solid lineup they currently have.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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