The Los Angeles Lakers made a strategic move by acquiring sharpshooter Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick in 2032, just before the NBA trade deadline. While not a headline-grabbing trade, it enables the Lakers to bolster their roster for the current season while preserving draft capital for potential future moves, most notably in pursuit of All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo next summer.
Sources close to the situation indicate that the Lakers are positioning themselves to make a significant offer to Antetokounmpo after the Milwaukee Bucks opted not to trade him by the deadline. Though the New York Knicks and Miami Heat appear to be his preferred destinations, Antetokounmpo has not dismissed the possibility of joining the Lakers.
With an estimated $60 million projected in salary-cap space and an array of first-round draft picks available (2026, 2031, and 2033), the Lakers are well-equipped to facilitate a deal for Antetokounmpo. Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed enthusiasm over Kennard’s addition, emphasizing his exceptional shooting skills, creative playmaking, and potential to thrive in the Lakers’ offensive system. Kennard, known for his three-point shooting prowess, has shot an impressive 49.7% from beyond the arc this season, leading the NBA in that category.
While acknowledging that Kennard may not excel defensively, his offensive capabilities are highly valued. In contrast, Vincent has struggled, averaging only 34.6% shooting from the field. Kennard’s shooting is expected to enhance the spacing on the court for star players like LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic, who recently returned from a calf injury.
The Lakers (30-19) return to action against the Philadelphia 76ers at Crypto.com Arena, following a successful eight-game road trip. They have five home games lined up before the All-Star break, followed by three additional home games before heading back on the road at the end of February. The acquisition of Kennard signals the Lakers’ intent to build a competitive team while keeping their options open for the future, particularly with Antetokounmpo in their sights.