NBA buzz links Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miami, with other stars as fallback options

NBA chatter around Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future continues to intensify, with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst saying the league believes the Milwaukee Bucks star will eventually land in Miami. Windhorst said, “The league believes that is what will happen,” adding that Antetokounmpo is focused and wants to be part of the Heat.

Windhorst also said the Bucks are still trying to determine the best offer, with many discussions taking place between Miami and Milwaukee, but no deal close to completion. He noted that Boston remains involved too, because Antetokounmpo would also be willing to sign a new contract with the Celtics. Still, Windhorst argued Boston would likely be cautious, because acquiring Giannis would require a complete change in the team’s style of play.

Barry Jackson, who covers the Heat, went further and said Antetokounmpo “without a doubt” wants to join Miami and has already begun exploring what life in the city would be like.

If Miami fails to land the Greek star, Marc Stein reported possible consolation targets could be Kawhi Leonard or Ja Morant. If neither of them is available, Stein said the Heat could consider pursuing Trae Young.