Lakers rumors: What Luka Doncic thought about trade deadline with Giannis Antetokounmpo pursuit looming

Giannis Antetokounmpo recently coached his celebrity team to victory, taking a brief break from a challenging season with the Bucks and ongoing trade rumors about his future. Currently sidelined with a calf strain, the two-time MVP used the weekend to reaffirm his loyalty to Milwaukee, stating, “As of today, I’m committed to the Milwaukee Bucks. I’m committed to the people I work with, my teammates, and the coaching staff.”

He emphasized that he is a winner who values loyalty, expressing his desire for no one to think he has quit on his team because he truly loves the organization.

This commitment will be tested this offseason, as sources told ESPN that the Lakers believe they would be on a very short list if the Bucks star decides to request a trade. An executive from the Western Conference mentioned to ESPN that Antetokounmpo is the “big prize” Los Angeles hopes to acquire. While Milwaukee may attempt to convince him to sign an extension on October 1, the Lakers are prepared with a package that includes three first-round picks.

Additionally, a source informed ESPN that Luka Doncic supports the team’s “adherence to discipline” and long-term focus, as he has not pressured the front office for an immediate superstar co-star while LeBron James is still active. Instead, the Lakers aim to use owner Mark Walter’s resources to replicate the success of the Dodgers. An Eastern Conference executive suggested that the team could take a bold approach and “go all-in” on Giannis.

This disciplined vision resonates with Doncic’s belief that his current team is superior to his former franchise, a sentiment he shared in an interview with Sportklub via HoopsHype. He stated, “I think the organization is better here. The Lakers are a truly legendary club, and the organization is legendary too.”

As Doncic returns from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for four games, he played limited minutes in the All-Star Game to satisfy the fans who voted for him, confirming afterward that his leg felt good.

As the Lakers prepare to continue their campaign, Doncic remains focused on staying on the court to demonstrate that this legendary club has the championship infrastructure necessary to bring home another banner.

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