The Milwaukee Bucks will enter the NBA offseason with a need to field a championship roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo— something they’ve so far failed to achieve. However, could his sights be set on the Miami Heat?
According to Ashley Nicole of iHeart Radio, Giannis Antetokounmpo is prepared to sign a long-term deal with the Miami Heat. Additionally, the Milwaukee Bucks are ‘not willing’ to let the two-time MVP walk in free agency.
The rationale for Antetokounmpo preferring the Miami Heat over a potential landing spot like the Golden State Warriors makes plenty of sense when accounting for his connection to Greece.
There has been numerous reports of preferred landing spots for Antetokounmpo already— including the Dallas Mavericks, at one point. If the Bucks hold onto the reigning MVP for the upcoming season, as they are expected to do, it will take time for the landscape to develop.
The Heat would likely need to either wait until 2021 NBA free agency to sign Antetokounmpo to avoid a situation the Los Angeles Lakers faced with Paul George a few seasons ago. Unless, of course, it’s more than just a rumor that the superstar intends to sign in Miami.
If the trade route were the option the Miami Heat planned to take, it could be difficult to field a superior offer without the inclusion of Bam Adebayo. However, the franchise views him as ‘untouchable’ in a trade scenario with the Bucks, even in their pursuit of Antetokounmpo.
Regardless, it still remains highly unlikely the Milwaukee Bucks trade Giannis Antetokounmpo. It would have to take him overtly maneuvering an early departure from the organization, also reminiscent of George’s situation with the Indiana Pacers.
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