Luka Doncic Receives Good Update on Tuesday

Despite speculation about another blockbuster addition, the Lakers had a rather quiet midseason trade deadline. The front office chose to keep Doncic’s current supporting cast intact, making only a targeted move by trading Gabe Vincent for elite three-point shooter Luke Kennard.

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, that restraint was intentional. The Lakers are focused on potential long-term targets this offseason, with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo headlining that list.

“The Lakers, team sources told ESPN, obviously see the appeal in Antetokounmpo and believe they would be one of the teams on a very short list if the Bucks star asks for a trade out of Milwaukee,” McMenamin reported.

McMenamin also noted that Doncic was aligned with the organization’s patient approach.

Antetokounmpo has made it clear publicly that he wants to compete for another championship, but he also stated he would never ask for a trade from the Bucks, per The Athletic’s Sam Amick. However, ESPN’s Shams Charania previously reported that the Bucks were agressively listening to offers for Antetokounmpo from interested teams. Despite the chatter, Antetokounmpo was not moved before the trade deadline and it’s unclear if the Bucks will remain open to trading him during the offseason.

As for Los Angeles, Doncic, who signed a three-year, $165 million extension in August, is expected to remain on the Lakers until at least the 2028-29 season. With the Slovenian superstar now under contract, the addition of Antetokounmpo would significantly expand the Lakers’ championship window and would undoubtedly position them as favorites to win a title.

The Lakers currently sit 5th in a stacked Western Conference with 28 games remaining. It remains to be seen how far Doncic can lead them in the playoffs, but their eyes are already set on the future.