Proposed blockbuster Lakers trade sends Luka Doncic to Bucks for generational $175 NBA champion

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is known for crafting thought-provoking trade proposals that’ll get the public talking for an extended period. 

Last Friday, Simmons arguably created his most intriguing yet, as the notable journalist proposed a blockbuster trade that would see the Los Angeles Lakers swap Luka Doncic for a generational Milwaukee Bucks NBA champion.

“Next one is just a straight one with the Lakers,” Simmons stated. “It’s just Luka and (Maxi) Kleber’s expiring for Giannis (Antetokounmpo). “It’s just the Lakers saying (expletive) it and turning Luka into Giannis. Paying (Austin) Reaves, keeping LeBron (James).”

If the Lakers were to trade for Antetokounmpo, there’s no question that Los Angeles would refrain from including Doncic in the deal. 

Sure, Doncic’s problematic on-ball defense is concerning. Still, trading a 26-year-old superstar who is a generational offensive talent and the future of the Lakers’ franchise would be a colossal and unforgivable mistake. 

Essentially, Doncic is an asset that a contending organization like the Lakers should feel compelled to build around rather than part with. 

With Reaves possessing an exceptionally high trade value in late January and likely enticing a Bucks squad that’ll likely begin the rebuilding process soon, swapping him for Antetokounmpo would be the wiser move.

Unfortunately, Antetokounmpo is currently nursing a calf strain that’ll sideline him for four to six weeks, preventing the Lakers from enjoying the NBA champion forward’s services for several contests. 

That said, Los Angeles shouldn’t be opposed to considering a last-second trade for Antetokounmpo this season.

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