Lakers Pitch Giannis Trade Built Around Austin Reaves Before June 23 Draft
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 4
Lakers Pitch Giannis Trade Built Around Austin Reaves Before June 23 Draft
3 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 4
Summary
Los Angeles' most detailed Giannis Antetokounmpo proposal would send Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, Dalton Knecht, Nick Smith Jr., a 2031 first-round pick and a 2032 swap to Milwaukee.
The framework hinges on a sign-and-trade: Reaves would decline his $14.9 million option, sign a four-year, $172 million deal and then be moved, giving the Bucks a salary slot they could not create outright.
Reaves is also the Lakers' biggest obstacle because Luka Doncic has told people inside the organization he does not want him included, leaving Los Angeles short on comparable star-level trade value if he stays.
Milwaukee is pushing for clarity before the June 23 draft, but is expected to wait until after the NBA Finals, which could run to June 19, before choosing among offers.
Miami is expected to challenge hard with a package centered on Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, the No. 13 pick and 2031 and 2033 first-rounders, raising the pressure on the Lakers' bid.