Lakers Fans Upset Over Giannis Antetokounmpo Message on Saturday
Speculation about Giannis Antetokounmpo's long-term future with the Milwaukee Bucks has been building for some time after disappointing results in recent years. Those discussions picked up midway through the 2025-26 season, when reports of internal tension and Antetokounmpo's desire to move on surfaced, per ESPN's Shams Charania.
The news sent shockwaves across the league and several teams were naturally linked to the two-time MVP as potential destinations. The Los Angeles Lakers were among them, given their history of pursuing star talent, although no formal offer was ever reported.
Some around the league even drew comparisons to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who began his career in Milwaukee, won a title, then moved to Los Angeles and added four more championships.
Still, that kind of path may not be in play, at least based on Antetokounmpo's latest comments. Appearing on "Gogi's Garage," he was direct when discussing the different cities he loves.
"I think L.A. is super superficial. I don't like L.A.," Antetokounmpo said.
The remark quickly made the rounds and drew strong reactions, particularly from Lakers fans. Many took to X to push back on his comments, criticizing his view of the city and questioning any potential fit with the franchise.
Giannis: "I think LA is super superficial. I don't like LA."
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 18, 2026
"Don't ever talk about my city like this giannis," one fan wrote.
"How many banners the bucks have again?" questioned another.
"LA don't like him either," one fan added.
"We don't want you either bud you're injury prone now," said a fourth fan.
"Don‘t need an crybaby on our Team we good we jus need Wings and Defensive Guards and a legitimate Center," a fifth fan mentioned.
"Injury proned, we don't need a Dwight 2.0 situation. Just focus on building the perfect team around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves," another fan posted.
Antetokounmpo's comment comes as Milwaukee continues to evaluate what they would do with their franchise player in the offseason. Bucks co-owner Wes Edens made the organization's stance clear, telling ESPN the team does not intend to let Antetokounmpo approach the end of his deal without clarity. Either an extension will be reached, or the franchise will explore a trade.
A player of Antetokounmpo's stature could influence his next destination, but the Bucks' front office would still prioritize the best possible return if they decide to move him, should it decide to trade the two-time MVP.
In the meantime, Los Angeles fans will turn their attention to the playoffs. The Lakers are set to open their first-round series against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, looking to move past last year's early exit and establish momentum in the postseason.
Related: Lakers Make Dalton Knecht Gesture Before Game 1 Against Rockets
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This story was originally published April 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM.