Miami Heat Among Teams Monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Situation

The Miami Heat could act as a potential suitor for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo if he requests a trade

The Miami Heat could seek superstar talent elsewhere if they fail to land Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard.

After two disappointing playoff appearances, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is the latest mentioned in trade rumors. Miami’s pursuit of Lillard has come to a sudden halt as the Toronto Raptors have entered conversations.

Despite Antetokounmpo expressing his desire to remain in Milwaukee, a handful of teams are keeping an eye on the situation. According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, the Heat are among the organizations doing so.

“Miami is certainly among the teams keeping an eye on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee,” Mannix said. “But are the Heat really willing to, ahem, burn another season of Jimmy Butler in the hope that Giannis is available? Or is the threat of Toronto landing Lillard enough for Miami to plus up whatever offer it had on the table?”

Miami has a large decision at hand, as Mannix mentioned. Does the front office hold out in hopes of Antetokounmpo requesting a trade, or do they continue their pursuit to acquire Lillard?

The Heat have reached the NBA Finals twice in the past four seasons, proving themselves as championship contenders. However, following the losses of Gabe Vincent and Max Strus, a third All-Star is heavily desired.

Whether it’s Lillard or Antetokounmpo, Miami should be decisive to avoid missing out on both superstars while they’re still available.

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci