When Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo declared that he was open to receiving offers from other teams, it changed the course of the NBA offseason.
Due to their lack of tradeable assets, the Miami Heat, who have been among the most active clubs in the race to acquire the two-time MVP, have been let down. Miami was named as an honorable mention to get Antetokounmpo in one Bleacher Report piece, which ranked the Thunder, Hawks, Nets, Rockets, and Spurs as the most likely contenders.
The article wrote:
“Miami is often a desired destination for star players, and Antetokounmpo has a strong relationship with Heat center/forward Bam Adebayo.”
Throughout his career with the Bucks, Antetokounmpo has amassed a Hall of Fame resume, including a 2021 championship, nine All-Star selections, and consecutive MVP awards in 2019 and 2020. The great forward hasn’t had much playoff success in Milwaukee, though, aside from his run to the Finals four seasons ago. In actuality, he has only won two playoff games in the previous three years and four playoffs rounds outside of 2021.
The injuries to his star teammates, paired with some underwhelming team performances, have held Milwaukee far back from its championship aspirations. Going to the Heat will place Antetokounmpo in a winning culture where he can headline one of the most successful teams in recent history.
Miami would be without its core, though, given the money they would need to trade for the Bucks star. Furthermore, the Greek Freak would not necessarily be in a much better position because he would not have a real celebrity by his side in Miami.