Jason Burgos
A new rumor is great news for the Miami Heat’s planned pursuit of a blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade this summer.
For the fourth straight year, the Heat found themselves playing in the NBA Play-In Tournament. However, unlike the last three times, Miami was unable to navigate the mini-tourney and saw its streak of playoff births end at six this spring.
While they did make the NBA Finals after an improbable run a few years ago, the Heat have had just one 50-plus win season over the last decade. A case could be made that Miami should consider a major roster overhaul and rebuild. Yet, that seems very unlikely for this proud franchise, and they are sure to go star hunting this summer. Milwaukee Bucks great Giannis Antetokounmpo is sure to be at the top of their wishlist.
Unlike in February, a trade is highly likely, especially when Bucks management has publicly claimed they won’t confirm the two-time MVP will be back next season. Furthermore, the number of teams interested and trade packages offered will be even better this summer than they were in winter. So Miami will have a lot of competition in the trade chase.
Heat should emerge as favorites for Giannis Antetokounmpo trade this summer
They can field a strong offer, but their chances of having the winning bid got even stronger in a new report on Friday night. According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Antetokounmpo is sure to “put his foot on the scale” and will push “towards a team that he wants to play for, and that part is going to be a big factor as well.”
While a lot of teams will have interest in the 10-time All-Star, there are a few cities he wants to go to. He surprisingly ruled out Los Angeles last month by calling the city “superficial.” The Golden State Warriors would have a chance because of the prestige of the brand and talent on the roster.
New York is reportedly his preferred destination. However, if this team reaches the NBA Finals and wins a championship, it’s likely that management will not break this group up.
It means Miami could emerge as the favorite in the trade sweepstakes. Especially if he forces a move to a specific city. Few NBA stars will pass up the chance to live in South Beach.
