The Miami Heat desperately needed roster changes this offseason. Sure, they added guards Norman Powell and Kasparas Jakucionis. However, one crucial piece might still be missing from their 2025-26 championship puzzle.
NBA trade rumors continue swirling through September, keeping fans on edge about potential blockbuster moves. The biggest question facing Miami is whether it can land a legitimate superstar to pair with Tyler Herro and transform their title aspirations into reality.
Can the Miami Heat Land Milwaukee Bucks Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo?
In a recent article, Sports Illustrated’s Thomas Carelli outlined a potential blockbuster scenario for the Heat.
While Miami has been linked to Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant, Carelli suggested an even bigger swing: trading for Milwaukee Bucks icon Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, acquiring the Greek Freak’s massive three-year, $186 million contract would require Miami to make some painful sacrifices.
Carelli’s proposed deal would send Antetokounmpo to Miami in exchange for Bam Adebayo, Norman Powell, Jaime Jaquez Jr., a 2029 first-round pick, and a protected 2031 first-round pick.
Trading Powell stings since he just arrived, but losing Adebayo would be devastating. The 28-year-old center has called Miami home since the Heat drafted him in 2017, and he’s locked into a three-year, $165.35 million contract that reflects his value to the organization.
Still, Miami’s front office faces a harsh reality. Despite Adebayo’s leadership in the locker room and his well-rounded skill set, the Heat haven’t captured a championship with their current core. Sometimes championship dreams require difficult decisions.
Adebayo averaged 18.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game last season while shooting 48.5% from the field. Those numbers showcase his versatility, but they haven’t translated to championship success.
The financial math also works in Miami’s favor. According to SI, this trade would help the Heat escape some hefty commitments. Adebayo will earn over $160 million across three years, while Powell is owed $20.5 million for the 2025-26 season. Including Jaquez in the deal would free up $7.3 million in additional salary space.
“It has been clear that the Heat have not been capable of competing with their current core of starters. By making this trade, they add an asset that knows what it takes to win an NBA championship,” Carelli wrote.
Imagine Antetokounmpo running alongside Herro, with Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jovic, and Terry Rozier providing the supporting cast. That lineup could create matchup nightmares for opponents while giving Miami the superstar presence they’ve lacked.
From Milwaukee’s perspective, losing Antetokounmpo would obviously hurt. But if the 2021 NBA Champion demands a trade, the Bucks would at least receive a proven All-Star in Adebayo, plus additional assets to rebuild around.
The biggest obstacle? Miami’s attachment to Adebayo and their belief that the current roster, including Wiggins and other role players, can still compete at the highest level.
Why Does Kevin Durant Remain Miami’s Top Target?
Beyond the Antetokounmpo speculation, Miami continues pursuing Durant with remarkable persistence. Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson recently noted:
“Durant will forever be a Heat possibility if he makes it to free agency; the Heat always has held him in high regard, but key members of the organization disagreed about which players to offer in trade negotiations with Phoenix in June.”
The Heat reportedly refuses to include Jovic or Kel’el Ware in any Durant negotiations, viewing both players as essential for their future rotation. That stance complicated trade discussions with Phoenix earlier this summer.
However, the appeal of creating a big three with Durant, Adebayo, and Herro remains irresistible. That trio would instantly elevate Miami’s championship odds while maintaining the veteran leadership and basketball IQ that defines Heat culture.
Durant’s production last season with the Suns proves he still has elite-level remaining. He averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 52.7% from the field, numbers that would immediately transform Miami’s offensive ceiling.
The question is whether Miami can wait until 2026 free agency or if they’ll make a desperate push for either superstar before the 2025-26 season begins. Either way, the Heat clearly aren’t satisfied with their current championship chances.