
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Salary, Lakers Trade Rumors, and NBA News
Giannis Antetokounmpo, known globally as the “Greek Freak,” is not only a dominant force on the basketball court but also a prominent figure in trade speculations and NBA news cycles. His extraordinary performances, jaw-dropping salary, and rumored links with the Los Angeles Lakers have created widespread buzz across the basketball community.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
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His current salary and contract breakdown
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The truth behind the Lakers trade rumors
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The latest news from the NBA
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What might be next for the Bucks superstar
Let’s break it all down.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Salary: How Much Does He Make?
Record-Breaking Contract with the Bucks
Back in December 2020, Giannis signed a 5-year, $228 million supermax extension with the Milwaukee Bucks. This deal, which began in the 2021–22 season, is one of the largest contracts in NBA history. It keeps him tied to Milwaukee through the 2025–26 season.
Yearly Salary Overview
Season | Salary (USD) |
---|---|
2021–22 | $39.3 million |
2022–23 | $42.5 million |
2023–24 | $45.6 million |
2024–25 | $48.8 million |
2025–26 | $51.9 million |
Moreover, his earnings are not just from the NBA. Giannis also makes millions annually through endorsements.
Endorsements and Off-Court Income
In addition to his NBA salary, Giannis earns $40+ million per year from global partnerships. Some of his most lucrative deals include:
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Nike – with his own signature “Zoom Freak” sneaker line
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Google and JBL – where he features in major ad campaigns
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Hulu, Tissot, and others
As a result, his net worth is estimated to be between $150 million and $170 million as of 2025.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Lakers: Are the Rumors True?
Why the Lakers Are Interested
The Lakers have long been rumored to be targeting Giannis as a possible franchise player to lead them into the post-LeBron era. His elite defense, offensive dominance, and global appeal would make him an ideal successor.
Naturally, Giannis playing in Los Angeles would be a massive storyline. For the Lakers, adding him would instantly make them championship favorites.
Potential Trade Scenarios
Although no trade is imminent, hypothetical scenarios have been circulating. A possible trade could involve:
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Anthony Davis
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Austin Reaves
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Multiple first-round picks
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Additional players to match salary (like Rui Hachimura)
Despite the speculation, the Bucks have shown no interest in moving their franchise centerpiece. After all, he’s still under contract, and Milwaukee remains a top contender in the East.
Giannis’ Response to the Rumors
Publicly, Giannis has remained diplomatic. In a 2024 interview, he said:
“I love Milwaukee. But I want to win. That’s the priority.”
This statement, though subtle, raised eyebrows. It suggests that if the Bucks stop contending, his future could shift elsewhere — possibly to a team like the Lakers.
Latest Giannis Antetokounmpo News and Performance (2024–2025)
2024–25 Season Highlights
So far this season, Giannis has continued to put up MVP-level numbers:
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Points Per Game (PPG): 31.2
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Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 11.6
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Assists Per Game (APG): 6.1
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Blocks Per Game (BPG): 1.5
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Field Goal Percentage: 56%
Thanks to his contributions, the Bucks are currently second in the Eastern Conference, just behind the Celtics.
Off-Court Achievements
Beyond basketball, Giannis continues to make an impact. In 2025, he expanded his AntetokounBros Academy in Greece. He also launched a media production company and helped fund a children’s hospital wing in Athens.
These endeavors show that his influence goes far beyond the basketball court.
Viral Moments and Interviews
Earlier this year, Giannis delivered a powerful post-game speech about perseverance, which quickly went viral. Additionally, his appearance on The Shop made headlines when he remarked:
“If I feel we’re not serious about winning, I’ll have to reconsider things.”
Again, that comment sparked renewed Lakers speculation.
Trade Rumors: Could the Bucks Lose Giannis?
Player Option Looming
While he’s under contract until 2026, Giannis has a player option for the final year. If exercised, he could become a free agent in 2025, allowing him to choose his next team — or re-sign with Milwaukee.
This gives Giannis significant leverage. Should the Bucks underperform, his departure could become a serious possibility.
Possible Landing Spots
If not the Lakers, where else could Giannis go? Here are some potential destinations:
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Miami Heat – Known for their culture and competitiveness
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New York Knicks – A massive market and growing young core
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Golden State Warriors – Championship pedigree
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Toronto Raptors – International appeal and strong front office
Still, Milwaukee will do everything possible to keep him.
Career Legacy and Comparisons
Bucks Franchise Cornerstone
Since being drafted 15th overall in 2013, Giannis has become the heart of the Bucks. He led the team to an NBA Championship in 2021, ending a 50-year drought.
He also holds multiple franchise records:
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All-time leading scorer
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Most triple-doubles
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Fastest Buck to 15,000 points
Compared to Other Superstars
Player | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | MVPs | Rings |
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Giannis Antetokounmpo | 31.2 | 11.6 | 6.1 | 56% | 2 | 1 |
Nikola Jokic | 26.4 | 12.3 | 8.9 | 63% | 3 | 1 |
Jayson Tatum | 28.6 | 7.4 | 4.9 | 48% | 0 | 1 |
Joel Embiid | 30.1 | 10.7 | 4.3 | 52% | 1 | 0 |
Clearly, Giannis stands tall among his peers, especially in terms of efficiency and defense. Giannis Antetokounmpo Lakers Trade.
What the Future Holds for Giannis
Summer Meetings with Bucks Management
Following the season, Giannis is expected to meet with the Bucks’ front office to discuss roster improvements. This includes possible trades, coaching changes, and future planning.
His involvement in these discussions will be crucial. If he feels heard and supported, he may stay for the long haul.
Will He Stay or Go?
The decision to remain with Milwaukee or leave will depend on several factors:
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Playoff success in 2025
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The long-term vision of the team
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His desire to expand his brand or chase more championships
Giannis has always valued loyalty, but he’s also made it clear that winning is non-negotiable. Giannis Antetokounmpo Lakers Trade.
Final Thoughts
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s story is still unfolding. While he continues to dominate on the court and inspire off of it, the NBA world is watching closely to see what comes next. Whether he finishes his career in Milwaukee or dons a Lakers jersey in the future, one thing is certain — Giannis will go down as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
For now, all eyes are on the Bucks, the Lakers, and the future of the “Greek Freak.”
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