The Lakers can acquire the Bucks’ $112 million All-Star by parting ways with Austin Reaves

On By Littum

Assuming the Milwaukee Bucks’ minor roster changes and the firing of Doc Rivers don’t vault them back among championship contenders, trading one of their stars is the last option.

Given that Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the cornerstone of the organization for years, destinations for Damian Lillard will likely be explored first. This is unless Antetokounmpo pushes for a trade out of Milwaukee.

The Los Angeles Lakers are always gauging the trade market for a possible third star to play alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, meaning offering Lillard a package wouldn’t come as a surprise. LA could face stiff competition to acquire the 34-year-old guard from teams like the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat.

Bleacher Report suggested following blockbuster three-team deal between the Lakers, Bucks and Detroit Pistons:

The Lakers receive: Damian Lillard

Bucks receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, 2029 first round pick (via LAL)

Stamps receive: Christian Wood, 2025 second-round pick (via LAL)

Bringing Lillard to the Lakers this summer would not only establish them as a serious threat in the Western Conference, but also potentially extend James’ career. If the first year of this hypothetical Big Three playing together results in an NBA Finals or Western Conference Finals appearance, the 20-time All-Star could be interested in an additional season. James has another son, Bryce, who is playing in his senior year of high school.

This return package leaves the Bucks with an unknown future. Because Reaves, Hachimura and Russell are all win-now pieces, the plan would still be to contend with a new core around Antetokounmpo. The problem, however, is a lack of star power outside of the Greek freak. None of the Lakers’ pieces can really work as a No. 2 option.

This is where a hopeful resurgence for Khris Middleton comes in.

MORE BUCKS NEWS: The Bucks may cut ties with Khris Middleton in favor of a season-saving $160 million star