Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the most frequently mentioned name in trade buzz around the league lately. With more rumors emerging every day, the likelihood of Antetokounmpo leaving the Bucks seems to be growing.
Despite these developments, acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t expected to be easy for any NBA team. With a hefty $54.1 million contract, Antetokounmpo is one of the highest-earning players in the league. When also considering the value he brings to the table, any franchise willing to acquire him would certainly have to part with a significant amount of assets.
Currently, three teams have generated the most buzz as potential landing spots, namely, the New York Knicks, the San Antonio Spurs, and the Miami Heat.
Considering that the Bucks forward was linked with these teams this offseason, it is challenging to determine his next destination.
Although most sources would point to the Knicks, primarily due to his personal inclination to join the storied franchise, the Heat may actually have the best chance at acquiring him. Here’s why:
Giannis Antetokounmpo Wanted To Join The Heat In 2020
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been closely linked with the Miami Heat. However, this is not a new development. According to a recent report, Antetokounmpo had shown an inclination to join the Heat in 2020.
The report revealed that the forward had shown a preference for two teams: the Dallas Mavericks and the Miami Heat. While Antetokounmpo’s interest was piqued because of the franchise’s rich history of competing and winning titles, the Heat were not in a position to trade for him at the time.
Currently, the Heat seem to have the necessary assets to acquire him. With draft capital, expiring contracts such as Terry Rozier, and high-value assets like Andrew Wiggins and Tyler Herro, Miami could realistically present a compelling offer to Milwaukee.
The Knicks May Not Be Focused On Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Knicks were probably the favorites to land Giannis Antetokounmpo if he were traded this offseason. With reports even indicating that an offseason meeting took place between the two franchises regarding Antetokounmpo’s future, there is every reason to believe that a trade was on the table.
Although the trade didn’t go through, the Greek forward has expressed his preference for joining a big market franchise like the Knicks. Unfortunately, New York may not be as keen to acquire the Bucks superstar.
Any trade to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo would require the Knicks to part with a sizable chunk of their core and draft reserves. Given that the franchise already expressed that it would not include a player such as Jalen Brunson in potential trade negotiations, it is clear that New York isn’t fully invested in acquiring the superstar.
Currently placed second in the East with a 17-7 record, the Knicks appear to be one of the best teams in the league. Considering their position, they may not need another superstar.
On that note, Max Kellerman even suggested that the franchise pursue LeBron James instead, but this would also seem to be a long shot.
The Spurs May Not Break Up Their Young Core
The San Antonio Spurs are another team that could emerge as a potential landing spot for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although the links with the Spurs were stronger in the offseason, primarily due to the value of their two first-round picks in this year’s draft, San Antonio still has some assets that could be considered worthwhile.
Regardless, it would be quite unlikely for the Spurs to trade for Antetokounmpo.
The franchise has been very invested in developing its young talent, nurturing the growth of players such as Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell. Given how committed the organization has been toward building through the draft, a potential trade that would undoubtedly break up their young core may not align with their plans.
Victor Wembanyama himself has been vocal in opposing trades to acquire superstars. Although adding Antetokounmpo would immediately transform them into a title contender, San Antonio remains committed to its process.
The Miami Heat Could Be Ideal For Antetokounmpo
When Giannis Antetokounmpo initially shared his list of preferences regarding potential trade destinations, the Miami Heat appeared to tick the most boxes. With a history of competing at the highest level, a culture that supports championship pedigree, and a global fanbase, Miami could be the ideal landing spot for the Bucks’ superstar.
At this point in the season, Miami is placed eighth in the East with a 14-11 record. Considering their playing style and roster makeup, the Heat are primed to be a dark horse in the East. With Antetokounmpo’s acquisition, they would undoubtedly become title contenders.
To acquire the superstar, the Heat may have to part with a considerable amount of assets, including young players such as Kel’el Ware. But considering what it could mean for Miami, they may see the benefit in taking the risk.
