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New Update Surfaces on Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic to Lakers Rumors

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jul 15, 2025 4:55 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have long been a destination for NBA superstars — from Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant to LeBron James and now Luka Doncic. Recently, the shocking midseason trade that brought Doncic to LA stunned the league, and it hasn’t taken long for speculation to swirl about which big name could be next to join him as the franchise eyes another title run.

That speculation has increasingly centered around two of the league’s biggest stars: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic. Antetokounmpo, whose future in Milwaukee has come into question after the Bucks suffered a third straight first-round playoff exit, is at the heart of rumors suggesting he might be ready for a fresh start if the Bucks fall short again next season.

Meanwhile, Jokic has raised eyebrows too. The three-time MVP and centerpiece of the Nuggets dynasty opted to decline a contract extension this offseason — a move that could earn him significantly more money if he waits until 2026. His decision, paired with recent comments from Denver’s ownership, has only added fuel to the chatter that LA could eventually make a play for him.

On Tuesday, Lakers insider Jovan Buha offered his take on which star is more likely to land in purple and gold.

“Between Giannis and Jokic, I think Giannis is more likely to be a Laker,” Buha said.

If the Lakers are able to actualize their 2027 plans and add their next superstar alongside Luka Dončić, who’s more likely: Giannis Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokić? pic.twitter.com/iiBHCb8gGn
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) July 15, 2025

He also added that despite Milwaukee’s efforts to keep Antetokounmpo happy, the clock is ticking if they fail to contend again next season.

Should the Lakers pull off either move, the implications are massive. Pairing Doncic with a two-time MVP like Giannis would give LA an unstoppable blend of elite defense, paint dominance, and championship pedigree. On the flipside, adding three-time MVP Jokic would bring the league’s best passing big man alongside Doncic’s stellar offense.

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

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