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NBA Trade Rumors: Giannis Antetokounmpo Advised To Stay Away From Lakers By Shaquille O'Neal 4 Mar 13, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) controls the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) in the first quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

NBA Trade Rumors: Giannis Antetokounmpo Advised To Stay Away From Lakers By Shaquille O’Neal

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 1:00 PM ET

After the Milwaukee Bucks fell short in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the surging Indiana Pacers, rumors are swirling about a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. With only one championship under his belt and a max contract already secured, the two-time MVP might be eyeing a new home—possibly with a bigger-market team.

But NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal isn’t on board with that plan.

Speaking on the Good Word with Goodwill podcast, Shaq offered a direct warning to Giannis Antetokounmpo, especially after the Bucks star expressed support for Luka Dončić’s trade to the LA Lakers, saying he wanted to see more European stars in marquee markets.

“Nobody cares what city you are in anymore. This ain’t the 90s. … Bigger market doesn’t matter. Social media is the market now,” O’Neal said. “You go to LA, that’s 50% of your contract goes to taxes, more pressure, more articles and more stress.”

Shaq knows this playbook well—he left Orlando for Los Angeles back in the ’90s not just for the Lakers’ storied history but also because the Magic wouldn’t match LA’s contract offer.

Now, Shaq says things have changed. For a global superstar like Antetokounmpo, location doesn’t define branding anymore.

“He’s already on a max deal. Let the opportunities come to you. You don’t have to chase LA or New York to be relevant,” Shaq added.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors: Texas Teams Emerging as Potential Destinations

While Giannis Antetokounmpo hasn’t publicly requested a trade from the Bucks, Shams Charania reported in May that the forward is open to the idea of moving if it means another shot at a title. Soon after, Sam Amico added fuel to the fire by naming Texas-based teams—specifically the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs—as viable destinations.

One major incentive? No state income tax in Texas.

“Houston and San Antonio are in Texas, where there are no state income taxes. Antetokounmpo is intrigued by that idea,” Amico wrote.

Apr 29, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots the ball while Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) defends during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Rockets, fresh off a second-round exit, are reportedly willing to include Alperen Sengun in a deal. The Spurs, meanwhile, are in a prime position to build a dynasty with Victor Wembanyama, the No. 1 pick from 2023, and potentially Stephon Castle, a projected top selection in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft.

NBA Trade Rumors: Toronto Raptors Looking To Swing For A 'Big Fish' Using Many Picks 2 Mar 1, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates with Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) and Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) against the Dallas Mavericks during the first half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

If Giannis truly wants to win another ring without the high cost of big-market taxes and media pressure, Texas might be calling.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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