Giannis Antetokounmpo’s cryptic move is the latest tease keeping Lakers fans hooked

Giannis Antetokounmpo (or rather whoever may run his account) cleaned up his social media. It sent the NBA world into a frenzy. In a time of overanalyzing cryptic messages, this one was too hard for fans to ignore.

His Twitter/X and Instagram accounts both notably got a massive makeover. The big thing most were pointing out is just how much Milwaukee Bucks content was erased from his platforms. It looks like what a friend would do after a breakup to showcase they are single again.

Given that vibe, many quickly rushed to the thought of this being the beginning of the end for Antetokounmpo's time in Milwaukee. Fans everyone have begun dreaming of what Giannis would look like in their team's threads. The Los Angeles Lakers fanbase is very much so involved in that.

It is hard to really fault anyone here for getting their hopes up. Anyone with any sort of interest in watching their team succeed should want a superstar of Giannis' caliber for their franchise. Whether there is any actual real substance here is a different subject matter.

The shameless lobbying for Giannis' services has kicked into overdrive

Giannis and Luka Doncic — that sounds like a dream duo, doesn't it?

After last year's shocking blockbuster that landed the Slovenian superstar in Los Angeles for a fraction of his total worth, Lakers fans would be forgiven for believing anything is possible. There's already one European featured in a starring role for Hollywood's team, why not two?

It's a nice thought, and one that is easily contagious.

Many have quickly pointed out that one of the remaining tweets still up on Antetokounmpo's page is from Dec. 15, 2020. It discusses making the next five years count. It just so happens that mark will be hit less than two weeks from now.

Is that when the trade wars commence? If the Lakers want a realistic shot at landing the dominant superstar, they should hope not.

Without Antetokounmpo specifically forcing his way to Los Angeles, the trade assets do not stack up favorably for the Lakers. This is a point of focus many fans will be tired of, but it still remains true and relevant. There would be no secret discussions as there were with the Doncic trade here.

Unless Austin Reaves is being floated as a trade chip, there is very little to suggest the viability of a deal. It's not that Reaves would be untouchable in those scenarios, but there is good reason to be tired of the idea involving moving on from the rapidly rising star.

The Lakers' best bet for a union is, and has always been, free agency. There should be a quiet encouragement for Giannis to ride out the rest of his contract until 2027 if the bright lights of Los Angeles are meant for him.