The Miami Heat are emerging as the team to watch as trade discussions around Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to intensify, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Speaking Monday morning on “Get Up,” Windhorst said Miami has one of the strongest potential trade packages and may also be a destination Antetokounmpo would welcome.
Windhorst pointed to the Heat’s combination of young talent and draft capital, including Tyler Herro, who has already made an All-Star team, and the No. 13 pick in the upcoming draft. He added that Miami could offer a lottery selection this year, which strengthens its appeal in any serious negotiations with Milwaukee. In his view, the Heat have “more checkmarks” than other possible suitors.
A report last week from The Athletic’s Sam Amick and Eric Nehm suggested that Miami’s likely offer could also include second-year center Kel’el Ware, guard Jaime Jaquez Jr., who finished runner-up for Sixth Man of the Year, and two future first-round picks. However, Amick later said on a radio appearance that Antetokounmpo has concerns about whether Miami would still have enough quality depth after such a deal.
Antetokounmpo is under contract for one more season at $58.5 million and has a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. Because of that contract structure, any team trading for him would face some risk unless he is fully committed to staying long term. The Bucks are reportedly hoping to settle the matter before the draft on June 23, either by trading the two-time MVP or persuading him to commit to an extension that he would become eligible to sign later this summer.
Multiple teams have been linked to Antetokounmpo since before the trade deadline, and Miami has reportedly been among the most aggressive. Windhorst said the Heat appear to be in a favorable position if Milwaukee decides to move the superstar forward, especially if Antetokounmpo prefers South Florida as a destination.
Windhorst also downplayed speculation that Oklahoma City could make a major move for Antetokounmpo by including Chet Holmgren or Jalen Williams after its playoff disappointment. He said the Thunder are sending a clear message that their young core is off limits and that the franchise plans to run it back. In his words, Oklahoma City is “not touching that core.”
He was similarly skeptical about the Celtics becoming involved in a blockbuster trade, including a scenario centered on Jaylen Brown. Windhorst said Boston may not be ready to move Brown, noting that Brown and Jayson Tatum have already won a championship together. He added that he expected the Celtics to be competing in the NBA Finals, underscoring how unlikely a major shakeup may be for the defending champions.
As the draft approaches, Milwaukee’s next move remains one of the biggest questions in the league, with Miami positioned as a leading contender if Antetokounmpo becomes available.
