MIAMI — The Miami Heat remain one of the most active teams in the chase for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, league sources told ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
Heat
Marks reported that Miami re-engaged Milwaukee in trade talks before February’s deadline, floating a package built around Tyler Herro, rookie Kelel Ware, draft compensation and additional players. With another season ending in the play-in round, team president Pat Riley now faces a decision on whether to revisit a blockbuster offer this summer.
The Heat hold the No. 13 pick in the June draft and have salary-cap flexibility. Extension decisions on Herro and second-year forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. are pending, while veteran guard Norman Powell is set to enter free agency.
Clippers
LOS ANGELES — After moving James Harden and Ivica Zubac during the season, the Clippers have added younger pieces and extra draft assets, giving the front office clearer long-term flexibility. Team president Lawrence Frank nonetheless emphasized that the franchise still intends to build around Kawhi Leonard.
Leonard, 35, is entering the final year of his deal and becomes eligible for an extension once the NBA Finals conclude. The two-time Finals MVP averaged 27.9 points and appeared in 66 games this season, raising questions about how long the organization will rely on an aging superstar.
Nets
BROOKLYN — With years of asset accumulation complete, the Nets approach the offseason holding the sixth overall pick, substantial cap space and one of the league’s largest caches of future draft selections. Management has little incentive to continue rebuilding and is expected to explore moves that accelerate winning.
Forward Michael Porter Jr., acquired from Denver and fresh off a career-best 24.2-point average, is now eligible for an extension. The club must also decide whether second-year forward Noah Clowney fits into its long-term core.
The three franchises enter the summer with significant flexibility and pivotal roster choices ahead.
Source: Hoops Wire
