ESPN’s latest projections place Dwyane Wade’s historic scoring mark in jeopardy as the Greek Freak brings paint dominance to a revamped, high-octane Miami Heat offense.
MIAMI, Fla. – In ESPN’s three-year outlook for all 30 teams in the NBA, which was published on Wednesday, Giannis Antetokounmpo is projected to break Dwyane Wade’s Miami Heat single-season scoring record.
In the 2008-09 season, the Hall of Famer averaged a league-leading and career-best 30.2 points, along with five rebounds, 7.5 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.3 blocks in 79 games (all starts). Wade finished third in both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year voting, but made the First Team All-NBA.
LeBron James came in a close second twice – averaging 27.1 points in the 2011-12 and 2013-14 seasons.
Antetokounmpo has surpassed Wade’s record mark in three of his last four seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks:
- 2022-23: 31.1
- 2023-24: 30.4
- 2024-25: 30.4
In those same seasons, Antetokounmpo led the league in two-pointers made and free throws attempted. Also, he led the league in field goals made in the 2022-23 and 2024-25 seasons. Antetokounmpo is known to be a dominant force, especially in the paint. He’s been virtually unstoppable with his 6-11 and 243-pound frame.
The 31-year-old is certainly capable of breaking Wade’s record, but there are some factors that need to go right.
Health and availability are extremely important, not just to top a franchise list, but for the Heat’s success. Last season, Antetokounmpo played in just 33 games. He dealt with a calf injury and the Bucks primarily sidelined him for load management.
Also, how will Erik Spoelstra run the Heat’s offense?
It’s no secret Antetokounmpo was the main option with the Bucks; even with Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday part of the supporting cast. It proves that scoring success can be replicated alongside Bam Adebayo, Klay Thompson, and Andrew Wiggins. However, as a new team with different pieces, it will still take some adjustments to find the best fits for the rotation.
Scoring in today’s league has significantly changed since the 2008-09 season, when the Phoenix Suns had the highest-scoring average of 109.4, which would’ve ranked 29th last season. As the Heat have shooters and presence in the paint, the number of possessions should increase, creating more opportunities for Antetokounmpo to score.
Wade’s record should be on watch as the 2026-27 season progresses. Antetokounmpo brings championship experience and dominance to South Florida. The Heat haven’t acquired a superstar of this caliber since LeBron James in 2010. Antetokounmpo begins a new chapter in a new city and with a new number, but the goal for the Larry O’Brien Trophy remains the same.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
