The Golden State Warriors' ambitious pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo at the recent NBA trade deadline included a surprising potential destination for veteran forward Draymond Green. According to new league rumors, the Warriors nearly sent Green to the Los Angeles Lakers as part of their comprehensive strategy to acquire Antetokounmpo.
NBA insider Brett Siegel revealed that Golden State management prepared an aggressive package centered around their future draft capital and young players in hopes of landing the two-time MVP. The proposed deal would have fundamentally reshaped both Western Conference contenders.
"After making a strong pitch for Giannis at the trade deadline, one that included all of their future draft capital and young players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, as well as the possibility of flipping Draymond for an extra draft pick, the Milwaukee Bucks signaled that they were not ready to move the superstar big man," said Siegel.
The Warriors' contingency plan involved redirecting Green to Los Angeles to recoup draft assets after depleting their stockpile in the proposed Antetokounmpo trade. Team sources confirmed the framework of a separate transaction that would have sent the four-time All-Star to the Lakers.
"At one point, there was a proposal put together by the Dubs that would have sent Green to the Lakers for a future protected draft pick, sources said," Siegel reported.
This potential move would have dramatically altered the Lakers' roster construction, pairing Green with LeBron James and Luka Dončić. The 36-year-old forward's defensive versatility and playmaking ability would have addressed several needs for Los Angeles, providing additional facilitation alongside their superstar duo.
Green is currently averaging 8.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game this season while shooting 41.7% from the field and 32.7% from three-point range. His championship experience and defensive IQ would have complemented the Lakers' existing core.
The Bucks' decision to retain Antetokounmpo prevented both proposed transactions from materializing. Milwaukee's front office ultimately determined that building around their franchise cornerstone remained their preferred path forward despite receiving significant offers from multiple teams.
Golden State's willingness to include both their young talent and veteran leadership demonstrates the organization's urgency to maximize Stephen Curry's championship window. The failed pursuit also highlights the escalating trade market for elite talent as contenders seek to acquire difference-makers.
With Green remaining in Golden State and Antetokounmpo staying in Milwaukee, both teams will continue evaluating their roster options heading into the offseason. The Lakers, meanwhile, maintain flexibility to pursue additional upgrades around their star players as they position themselves for another championship run.
