Lakers Eye Giannis Antetokounmpo If Bucks Wait

Marc Stein reports the Lakers likely lack "enough tradeable assets to join the in-season bidders" for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but could "become a very viable threat to land" him in the offseason if Milwaukee waits. Los Angeles plans to "stay patient and avoid deals that involve any long-term salary to maintain maximum flexibility for the spring," hoping cap space will let them add Giannis without moving their core. Golden State has pitched a package that "made Draymond Green part of their pitch" with Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski and picks, but the Bucks do not want Green’s contract back. Merlin sees a chess match. If Milwaukee tests the market now, the Warriors and several teams with closer ties to Giannis could win. If the Bucks hold, L.A.’s patience could pay off and turn cap room into the decisive advantage.