While a number of players have been connected to the Miami Heat, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant have sparked the most discussion lately. With a 22-20 record, the Heat are actively seeking roster upgrades to boost their chances of making a deeper championship push.
Trade rumors around Ja Morant picked up steam after it was reported that he purchased a home in Miami. While that fueled speculation, a recent update from NBA insider Marc Stein could put to rest the chatter linking the two-time All-Star to the Heat.
“One well-placed league source insisted to me that the Miami Heat should be scratched as a Ja Morant suitor,” the insider wrote. “Even if the terms are favorable, if such a move jeopardizes a future trade run at Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo.”
Could Giannis Antetokounmpo join the Miami Heat?
Apr 5, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) passes the ball under the arm of Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) during overtime at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
The Heat have long appeared to be a natural landing spot for Giannis Antetokounmpo, even during the offseason. The team’s culture and championship pedigree align closely with Giannis’ goals, providing strong indications that a move to Miami could appeal to the Bucks superstar.
The situation with Antetokounmpo, however, is far from straightforward. While his name has surfaced in numerous trade rumors, he has not formally requested a move. In fact, the Bucks superstar has repeatedly stressed his intention to stay in Milwaukee for the remainder of his career.
Even with Antetokounmpo’s clear statements, trade rumors keep circulating, creating a standstill in the market as teams wait to see if he might become available.
Feb 23, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) looks on during the second quarter against the Miami Heat at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
At present, five teams, including the Miami Heat, are believed to be in the mix for Giannis Antetokounmpo. NBA insider Zach Lowe recently highlighted this during his appearance on NBA Prime.
“The Hawks, the Warriors, the Lakers, the Heat, maybe the Knicks that are sort of thinking to themselves, do we need to keep all of our stuff and wait for Giannis to maybe become available, whether it’s now or in the summer?”
If Antetokounmpo ultimately requests a trade, the teams mentioned will have to maximize their assets to put together the strongest possible offer. Only the NBA trade deadline will reveal how the situation unfolds.