Former Kobe Bryant teammate shares bold suggestion for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future

The Milwaukee Bucks have not had an ideal postseason. Doc Rivers and his team only managed to win Game 3. That result disappointed fans who expected a higher level of competitiveness from a title-contending roster. Still, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to show up. However, this season’s struggles could push him to explore a new destination. Following this uncertain outlook, a former Kobe Bryant teammate discussed which teams the Giannis could play in.

“If Giannis doesn’t want to come back to Milwaukee, and it’s really up to him if he wants to stay or doesn’t want to stay, that would revitalize the Miami fanbase…They obviously have a lot of good players. They don’t have that guy which is kind of what we’re talking about with Houston. They don’t really have that guy. But what’s interesting for me, if I’m Giannis and I don’t want to go back to Milwaukee… maybe play with Luka? Maybe go to L.A.?,“ stated Carlos Boozer on ESPN.

Giannis Antetokounmpo keeps delivering impressive individual seasons. However, the team around him struggles to match his level. He often finds himself carrying the Bucks alone. Because of that, the possibility of his departure from the franchise remains open. Moreover, Giannis already stated he wants to win at least one more MVP award. That goal will be very hard to achieve if the Bucks fail to maintain consistency, especially in the postseason.

Therefore, many fans dream about Giannis joining the Los Angeles Lakers. The idea gains strength considering LeBron James’ veteran status and the possibility of his retirement. With that in mind, the franchise could target another superstar to stay competitive. Giannis could fit perfectly alongside Luka Doncic, creating a powerful offensive duo.

Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts to a score during the first half of a game against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum on April 09, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Additionally, Giannis’ comments from February 2025 continue to resonate. At that time, he said he wanted more Europeans in major markets. He even mentioned Luka Doncic playing in Los Angeles. Those words added fuel to the growing rumors about his NBA future. However, no talks between the Bucks and Lakers have surfaced so far. For now, his potential move remains pure speculation.

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How did Carlos Boozer perform during his time with Kobe Bryant and the Lakers?

Carlos Boozer had a short stint with the Los Angeles Lakers during Kobe Bryant’s penultimate season, in 2014–15. He joined the team at age 33, already considered a veteran. Even so, he played 71 games and averaged 11.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. Those numbers marked his worst statistical season since his rookie year in 2002–03.

Moreover, that year turned out to be his last in the NBA. The Lakers struggled badly throughout the season. They finished last in the Pacific Division and second to last in the Western Conference. As a result, it was not a highlight of Boozer’s career. In fact, despite logging heavy minutes, his time in L.A. left a disappointing impression.