Giannis Watch Intensifies as Knicks, Heat Emerge as Early Suitors
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December 7, 2025 — Front offices across the NBA are bracing for the moment the Milwaukee Bucks indicate they are open to trade proposals for Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to reporting by Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
League executives told Fischer they expect the two-time MVP to exert significant influence over any potential destination because acquiring teams would need to enter next season with championship ambitions. While a surprise bidder could still surface, the New York Knicks and Miami Heat are viewed as the franchises most likely to mount a serious pursuit.
Knicks Viewed as Preferred Landing Spot
Sources cited by Fischer believe New York stands out as Antetokounmpo’s favored team. The 6’11” forward reportedly discussed the Knicks as a temptation during the offseason, and he has been drawn to the club’s exuberant fan celebrations following playoff victories, which mirror the supporter culture he admires in European basketball and soccer.
Heat Position Assets for Possible Bid
Antetokounmpo’s representatives have previously explored how playing in states without income tax — including Florida — would affect his earnings, Fischer reports. Miami’s refusal to include center Kel’el Ware in Kevin Durant talks this past summer, and its decision not to package Ware with Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, and the No. 20 pick in the 2025 draft, was interpreted around the league as an effort to preserve assets for a younger superstar.
The Heat have also held internal conversations about pursuing Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, who has missed 11 of the past 12 games with a calf strain. Miami is said to be open to moving Andrew Wiggins in the right deal, and the absence of a contract extension for Tyler Herro is viewed as a sign he could be included in trade discussions.
Key Contract and Performance Details
Antetokounmpo, who turned 31 earlier this season, is averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while converting a career-best 43.5% from three-point range. He becomes eligible for a contract extension on October 1, 2026, a timeline expected to influence how aggressively teams pursue him.
Source: Hoops Rumors
