Giannis Antetokounmpo's future with the Milwaukee Bucks hangs in the balance. Could the Miami Heat finally land their superstar target before the deadline?
The trade deadline is only nine days away, yet there's hardly any legitimate buzz. Trae Young moving to the Washington Wizards continues to be the only midseason deal to occur. The four-time All-Star may not play for them this season due to a right knee MCL sprain.
The whispers about superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to hold the trade market hostage. The Miami Heat is one of many teams lined up ready to offer their best package if the former Finals MVP were to be made available. The Milwaukee Bucks are in the midst of a horrendous season, currently sitting with an 18-26 record, 11th in the Eastern Conference standings.
In Friday night's matchup against the Denver Nuggets, Antetokounmpo suffered non-contract right calf injury. He expects to be sidelined for four-to-six weeks. The nine-time All-Star has dealt with lower leg injuries throughout his 13-year career.
Antetokounmpo is averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists while shooting 64.5 percent from the field, 39.5 percent from three-point range in 30 games played thus far. Despite limited action, the 31-year-old's value on the open market is arguably the highest out of any potential candidates.
There's speculation that Antetokounmpo may get traded after all.
"I think he's played his last in a Bucks uniform," Marc J. Spears said on Monday on ESPN.
The longtime NBA senior writer believes it benefits the organization for him not to play and believes the best destination for him is the Atlanta Hawks, potentially building a package around an unprotected first-round pick from the New Orleans Pelicans.
"You can make a trade for him now with Atlanta," he added.
However, the Heat could offer a package surrounding expiring salaries, young talent, plus draft capital. It would likely come down to who Antetokounmpo decides which destination is best for him. He's making $54.13 million this season, set to make $58.46 million next year, then has a $62.79 million player option.
The future of the Bucks franchise will be decided in the upcoming days.
The Heat have been linked to two-time All-Star Ja Morant, but the organization is unlikely to take a big swing or offer a high-quality package for the 26-year-old. They've prioritized future cap space, but are willing to sacrifice to acquire a superstar, such as Antetokounmpo.
The trade deadline closes on Feb. 5th, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. As the clock draws down, an altering decision could be made.
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