{"id":713405,"date":"2026-04-18T19:42:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-18T19:42:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/713405\/"},"modified":"2026-04-18T19:42:41","modified_gmt":"2026-04-18T19:42:41","slug":"lakers-video-giannis-antetokounmpo-does-not-like-los-angeles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/713405\/","title":{"rendered":"Lakers Video: Giannis Antetokounmpo Does Not Like Los Angeles"},"content":{"rendered":"

All signs are pointing to Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo finding a new team this offseason, and the Los Angeles Lakers are one rumored landing spot<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Whether the Lakers have the assets to get it done remains to be seen, but they will at least look into the possibility of pairing Antetokounmpo with Luka Doncic. However, it looks like the Bucks star may not have any interest in playing in L.A., via Gogis Garage<\/a>:<\/p>\n

Giannis says he prefers Miami over L.A.:<\/p>\n

Dragic: Vacation, L.A. or Miami?<\/p>\n

Giannis: Miami. Miami, Miami. I think LA superficial. I don\u2019t like L.A.<\/p>\n

(Via Gogis Garage YT) pic.twitter.com\/utGP7c3IT9<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) April 18, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

It\u2019s worth noting that the Miami Heat were one of the few teams pursuing Antetokounmpo this past season, but Milwaukee opted not to deal him. Presumably, Miami will be right back in the mix this summer as the Bucks are expected to make significant changes following a disappointing season.<\/p>\n

While L.A. loves to chase stars, there are reasons for concerns given how Antetokounmpo has aged, already suffering multiple lower leg injuries, most recently a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. He also only suited up in 36 games this season, and has missed numerous postseason games in recent years due to injury.<\/p>\n

Ultimately, building out depth instead of chasing another star may be the answer for the Lakers and general manager Rob Pelinka. Perhaps Antetokounmpo revealing his love for Miami and dislike for L.A. will sway Pelinka in exploring that as an option this offseason, shifting his focus more realistic avenues to improve the Lakers.<\/p>\n

Lakers believe they would be on Bucks star\u2019s shortlist <\/p>\n

Despite these recent comments by Antetokounmpo, the Lakers were in the rumor mill at the trade deadline as a potential suitor. While they could not pull off a deal this season, they would have access to more picks to offer in a package in the offseason.<\/p>\n

Seeing how Antetokounmpo brought a championship to Milwaukee, one would assume the organization would do right by him and find a new home that their star wants. Big markets tend to get all the love when high caliber talent is available and Los Angeles possesses a high percentage of landing them. <\/p>\n

All options should be open to build a contender around Doncic and with LeBron James\u2019 future remaining a question mark, finding another star to take his place may be the front office\u2019s thinking. With Antetokounmpo expected to be available once again this offseason, the Lakers expect to be on his shortlist of preferred destinations<\/a>, although these comments from the superstar himself may indicate otherwise.<\/p>\n

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel<\/a>? It\u2019s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!<\/p>\n