Luka Doncic Backs Lakers Chasing Giannis Antetokounmpo

Luka Dončić said he had no problem with the Lakers taking a quiet approach at the Feb. 5 deadline, praising their focus on the "long-term picture." Los Angeles made only a small move and is clearly setting up a summer retool that could target Giannis Antetokounmpo, the "big prize" one exec called. The Lakers, however, have just three first round picks and no young, high-upside players to sweeten a deal. Merlin sees a team choosing patience over panic. With limited draft capital and Milwaukee unlikely to rush, L.A. will lean on cap flexibility, LeBron’s expiring deal and a possible Austin Reaves extension to create options. As one exec said they could say "f--k it" and go all in, but outbidding clubs with youth and future picks will be difficult.