NBA rumors: Stephen A. Smith makes Giannis trade declaration Lakers fans don’t want to hear

Trade speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo has resurfaced as the regular season nears its conclusion, but a recent update may dampen expectations for the Los Angeles Lakers.

During Tuesday’s episode of First Take, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith addressed Antetokounmpo’s potential interest in Los Angeles alongside Monica McNutt and Jay Williams.

Monica McNutt: “If the Lakers make a play for Giannis. I know Jay point out he wants to be in New York [with the Knicks]…”

Jay Williams: “He don’t wanna be in LA.”

Stephen A. Smith: “I was told he doesn’t want to be in LA. Jay was told the same thing. We were all told he don’t want to be in LA.”

The remarks add a new layer to ongoing league-wide speculation about Antetokounmpo’s future, particularly as the Milwaukee Bucks star continues to be linked to several high-profile markets.

Monica McNutt: "If the Lakers make a play for Giannis. I know Jay point out he wants to be in New York [with the Knicks]…"

Jay Williams: "He don't wanna be in LA."

Stephen A. Smith: "I was told he doesn't want to be in LA."

(via @FirstTake)pic.twitter.com/aLhaubM31a

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 7, 2026

Lakers face uncertainty amid injuries and Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors

For Los Angeles, the focus remains on navigating the final stretch of the regular season. The Lakers hold a 50-28 record and are currently battling for positioning in the Western Conference standings after losing ground in the race for the No. 3 seed.

The team faces a pivotal matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder (62-16), one of the league’s top teams, as it looks to regain momentum heading into the postseason.

Injuries have added to the uncertainty. Luka Doncic is expected to miss 4–6 weeks with a hamstring strain and is currently in Spain as he works to expedite his recovery, while Austin Reaves is also projected to be sidelined for 4–6 weeks after being diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique strain.

With two key contributors unavailable or uncertain, the Lakers’ ability to maintain their standing in a tightly contested Western Conference remains in question.

Looking ahead, roster construction will again become a focal point for the organization. While a potential pursuit of Antetokounmpo would represent a blockbuster scenario, Smith’s comments suggest Los Angeles may not be a preferred destination.

Instead, the Lakers may need to prioritize continuity, building around Doncic, Reaves and LeBron James as they evaluate their long-term direction with the postseason approaching.

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