Knicks, Heat Positioned as Leading Contenders if Bucks Explore Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade
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If the Milwaukee Bucks make Giannis Antetokounmpo available, league sources expect the New York Knicks and Miami Heat to move quickly to the front of the trade market.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee have held “honest and open” discussions about the franchise’s direction, and the two-time MVP has privately indicated for several months that a change of scenery could be necessary. Publicly, Antetokounmpo has maintained he will not request a trade.
Knicks Monitoring Situation Since Last Offseason
New York explored Antetokounmpo’s availability last summer after the forward reportedly listed the Knicks as a preferred destination. SNY.tv’s Ian Begley reports the club is expected to pursue the 29-year-old “aggressively” if Milwaukee begins fielding offers.
Heat Preparing Their Pitch
The Heat are also gearing up for a run at Antetokounmpo. Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald writes that Miami plans to “chase” the seven-time All-Star, echoing a recent note from veteran reporter Marc Stein describing a sense of confidence inside the organization.
Draft Capital Remains a Hurdle
Both teams face limitations with trade assets. The Knicks currently have no tradable first-round picks, while the Heat are restricted to two first-rounders because of Stepien Rule constraints tied to a protected 2027 selection. Cap analyst Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron points out that each franchise would have greater flexibility once the offseason begins.
Source: Hoops Wire
