Lakers Eye Giannis Trade But Luka Doncic Reportedly Wants One Key Player To Stay
As the Los Angeles Lakers head into one of their most pivotal offseasons in years, two storylines are already shaping the direction of the franchise: the team’s interest in pursuing a blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Dončić’s clear desire to keep Austin Reaves as part of the core moving forward.
Los Angeles Lakers Looking At Giannis Antetokounmpo
According to reporting from The Athletic, the Lakers are expected to explore trade scenarios involving Antetokounmpo. It’s the kind of aggressive swing the franchise has never shied away from, especially with a superstar like Dončić now in place. But there’s a complication — Dončić has reportedly told the organization he doesn’t want Reaves included in any potential deal.
“Dončić has made it clear to the Lakers that he would like to continue playing with Reaves, according to league sources. Beyond their close friendship, Dončić believes in Reaves as a long-term piece next to him. Multiple league sources said that belief was best illustrated when Dončić told people within the organization that he wouldn’t want Reaves included in any potential trade packages for Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. Dončić, those sources say, would strongly prefer a team construction that includes him and Reaves alongside whatever star the Lakers could acquire.”
Dončić Sees Reaves as a Long‑Term Running Mate
Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2025, Dončić has built a strong on‑court chemistry and off‑court friendship with Reaves. League sources told The Athletic that Dončić views Reaves as a long‑term piece next to him, and he made that stance clear internally.
He didn’t just express a preference — he specifically stated he wouldn’t want Reaves involved in a trade package for Antetokounmpo. For a franchise trying to build around its new superstar, that kind of input carries weight.
Reaves has earned that respect. He’s coming off a career‑best season, averaging 23.3 points per game in 51 appearances. With the ability to opt out of his $14.9 million salary for 2026‑27, he’s positioned for a massive payday. If he re‑signs with the Lakers, he could command up to $239.3 million over five years.
The Lakers Want a Star, but Their Assets Are Limited
Even if the Lakers want to chase Antetokounmpo, the mechanics are tricky. They can only trade first‑round picks in 2031 and 2033 at the moment, plus a 2032 pick that can’t be packaged with the others because of the Stepien Rule.
They do have several pick‑swap options, but the overall asset pool is thin compared to other teams that could enter the bidding. The Bucks have made it clear they want young players who could be franchise cornerstones. Without Reaves, the Lakers have little to offer.
That’s why Reaves’ name would normally come up in discussions — he’s one of the Lakers’ most valuable trade chips. But if Dončić is drawing a line, the front office has to weigh the cost of pushing back against its franchise player.
Reaves’ Future Could Shape the Entire Offseason
Reaves’ contract decision might be the most important domino for Los Angeles. If he opts out and tests the market, the Lakers will need to decide how far they’re willing to go financially to keep him. If he stays, the team remains well below the tax line and second apron, giving them room to maneuver.
But if Dončić views Reaves as essential, the Lakers may have little choice but to prioritize keeping him — even if it complicates their pursuit of another star.
The Bottom Line
The Lakers want to chase big names. Dončić wants continuity with a teammate he trusts. And Reaves wants — and deserves — a major contract. How those three forces collide will define the Lakers’ offseason and determine whether a Giannis pursuit is realistic or simply a headline‑friendly idea.
