With under a week to go until the trade deadline, the Miami Heat's expectations are still unknown. With their current No. 7 standing in the Eastern Conference, the Heat could identify as either buyers or sellers and both outcomes could be understandable. However, there is a superstar reportedly on the trade block who could turn the team into strong contenders in the East.
CBS Sports released an article, noting potential destinations for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Heat are viewed as a legitimate destination for Antetokounmpo at the trade deadline.
"Miami's package would be built more around young talent than draft capital, namely in the form of Kel'el Ware, revitalized Jaime Jaquez Jr. (who looks kind of awesome again) and possibly Kasparas Jakucionis, who's just 19 and suddenly starting for Miami," the article wrote. "Tyler Herro would go as well, though Milwaukee may not desire the Wisconsin native long term. He's a 20 PPG scorer and still just 26. It's not nothing. As far as picks, Miami can offer two firsts in 2029 and 2031, and swaps in '28, '30 and '32. Golden State's picks are far superior. In a potential bidding war, how much would Milwaukee really value Miami's players? My instinct says the Warriors would win that war if they fired all their bullets. However, I do think Miami's package, in a vacuum, would probably beat those of the next two teams on this list, or at least be more structurally straightforward."
The Heat have the assets to make a trade. Last offseason, Kevin Durant was available in trade talks but Pat Riley stood firm and decided not to part with any of his young players. However, a deal for Antetokounmpo would force the Heat to presumably part with Kel'El Ware, Tyler Herro and multiple future draft picks. Players of Antetokounmpo's caliber do not usually hit the midseason trade market but the Heat could strike a deal with Milwaukee.
The Heat have missed out on the stars over the past few seasons with Durant and Damian Lillard heavily rumored to be interested in joining Miami. Now could be Riley's time to make a huge franchise-changing splash by bringing in a former champion and MVP.
Join the Community
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!