Lakers Get Bad News from Giannis Antetokounmpo on Saturday
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has long been rumored to be on his way out of Milwaukee, as the team has seen limited success since its NBA Championship in 2021. The Los Angeles Lakers have often been linked to Antetokounmpo, popping up as a potential destination whenever trade rumors arise. Unfortunately for Lakers fans, it seems that Giannis isn't very interested.
"I don't like LA," Antetokounmpo said in an interview on the Gogi's Garage podcast.
Giannis says he prefers Miami over LA
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) April 18, 2026
Dragic: "Vacation, LA or Miami?"
Giannis: "Miami. Miami, Miami. I think LA superficial. I don't like LA"
(Via Gogis Garage YT, h/t @HeatCulture13) pic.twitter.com/supYbMGjWm
While Antetokounmpo has committed to playing in Milwaukee, trade rumours are always swirling around the superstar. Many have speculated that the small-market Bucks will eventually lose their star to a team in a bigger market. This wouldn't be the first time Milwaukee's best player headed out west, as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar left for the Lakers after bringing the city its first championship.
Antetokounmpo has been at odds with Bucks ownership recently, allegedly pushing back against front office decisions. While recovering from a calf injury, the Bucks shut down Antetokounmpo for the remainder of the season, despite the star publicly saying he wants to play. This led to significant tension with the then-coach, Doc Rivers, who was unhappy that Antetokounmpo took these discussions public. Thankfully for Bucks fans, the organization parted ways with Rivers recently, which likely increases the team's chances of keeping Antetokounmpo happy.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 18, 2026 at 2:22 PM.