The Lakers are discussing a trade with the Timberwolves, but Giannis’ situation is an obstacle
The The Los Angeles Lakers have been quiet so far at the NBA trade deadline, they seem content to move with their roster as they will through the rest of the season. However, this does not mean that Rob Pelinka and company they don’t want to make any moves along the margin as the deadline approaches.
Recently, NBA insider Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported on the Lakers’ talks with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
“Among the teams that have spoken with the Timberwolves recently, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed interest in swingman Donte DiVincenzo, sources said,” Siegel said.
However, there was apparently a Giannis Antetokounmpo– barricades on the road in the process.
“These talks have not progressed to anything significant, as the Timberwolves would only consider moving DiVincenzo if it would help them trade for Giannis. The Lakers do not appear to have any valuable assets to help Minnesota’s pursuit of Giannis other than their future first-round pick in 2031,” Siegel reported.
The Timberwolves have been mentioned as a possible trade suitor for Antetokounmpo for several days, and that speculation only grew on Tuesday, when Minnesota included in itself a three-team deal with the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons that appeared to only benefit the Timberwolves financially. Many speculated that the deal was designed to pave the way for a much bigger deal, with Antetokounmpo the obvious candidate for the role.
Meanwhile, the Lakers have been playing solid basketball of late, but still have some glaring needs on their roster, including a lack of viable perimeter defenders and rotational frontcourt players. While Luka Doncic continues to perform at an MVP level, Los Angeles risks being exposed again in the playoffs if he is unable to make a move in the coming days.
The NBA trade deadline is set for Thursday afternoon at 3:00 PM ET.
2026-02-04 17:07:00
