The Lakers could target Knicks forward OG Anunoby in a blockbuster three-team trade if New York pursues Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason.
The offseason speculation surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks is already beginning to intensify, even with the Eastern Conference Finals still underway.
While a direct trade between two of the league’s most high-profile franchises may initially sound unlikely, several NBA analysts believe circumstances could eventually create a realistic path toward a blockbuster deal involving OG Anunoby.
The latest scenario emerged from Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale, who explored the possibility of the Lakers acquiring the Knicks forward as part of a larger multi-team trade connected to Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors.
According to the proposed framework, New York would only seriously consider moving Anunoby if it had a legitimate opportunity to land Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks.
It is an idea that perfectly captures the direction of the modern NBA offseason: superstar movement changes everything.
Why OG Anunoby could become central to summer trade rumors
At the moment, Anunoby remains one of the most valuable two-way wings in basketball.
The 28-year-old has been instrumental in New York’s deep playoff run, providing elite perimeter defense, floor spacing and efficient scoring on a team that suddenly looks capable of reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
His postseason numbers underline his importance. Anunoby is averaging over 20 points per game while shooting at elite efficiency from both the field and three-point range, all while regularly defending the opponent’s top perimeter scorer.
Players with that profile are extremely difficult to replace.
That is exactly why the Knicks would almost certainly refuse to move him in ordinary trade discussions. Anunoby fits perfectly alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, giving New York the defensive balance necessary to compete for a championship.
However, the conversation changes completely if Antetokounmpo becomes available.
A two-time MVP entering his prime would force every franchise to reconsider its untouchable assets, and the Knicks are no exception.
How Giannis speculation may impact the Knicks’ future plans
The Knicks have repeatedly been linked to Antetokounmpo over the past year, especially after reports suggesting the superstar had interest in playing in a major market such as New York.
If Milwaukee ever opened the door to negotiations, New York would likely need to sacrifice major pieces of its current core to compete with other offers around the league.
That is where teams like the Lakers could potentially enter the picture as facilitators.
Los Angeles is actively searching for ways to improve its perimeter defense and outside shooting around LeBron Jamesand Luka Dončić. Anunoby would immediately solve several of the Lakers’ biggest roster weaknesses, giving them a versatile wing capable of guarding multiple positions while thriving without needing high offensive usage.
The challenge, naturally, would be constructing a deal attractive enough for all sides involved.
Still, the possibility alone highlights how dramatically the NBA landscape could shift this summer depending on Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee.
For now, the Knicks remain focused on chasing a championship. But if New York falls short in its title pursuit, speculation surrounding blockbuster moves will only grow louder.
And in that scenario, OG Anunoby may suddenly become one of the most discussed names on the trade market.
