Q: Ira, why does everyone in the world know the Miami Heat’s offer for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but all the other NBA teams seem to be holding their offers close to their vest? It’s like a game of “Can You Top This,” with the Heat as the stooge for all the other teams in the league to beat. I wish we could go back to the days when NBA trades were made in private between two teams, like Rob Pelinka and Nico Harrison did with the Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis trade. – Greg, Jacksonville.
A: I’m sure many teams would appreciate a Nico Harrison-type heist, with the lesson from the Luka Doncic deal being that you have to field offers from anyone and everyone. As for the Heat, it would be practically impossible to finish as the last team in the bidding for Giannis Antetokounmpo at February’s trade deadline and then act as if renewed interest isn’t there. As for the Heat’s offer being known, it also comes down to simple math, that Tyler Herro’s contract would have to be included to make it work under the salary cap, since Terry Rozier’s deal is off the books, Norman Powell is a free agent and Andrew Wiggins holds a player option. From there, it would be apparent that any suitor would want the Heat’s top young prospect, which is where Kel’el Ware enters the picture, and another young contributor, which has had Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s name out there. Plus, of course, draft capital. What isn’t as clear is the degree of the Heat’s offer, when it comes to prospects and picks.
Q: I’m sorry, but just wait for Giannis Antetokounmpo to become a free agent and then sign him for nothing in exchange in free agency next summer, like the Clippers did with Kawhi Leonard. – Samson.
A: While that certain is an option, or at least the threat of an option, it has become increasingly clear that the flex here is Giannis Antetokounmpo only accepting a trade to a team where he will sign his max extension six months after his acquisition. Based on recent injury history, it would seem he – unlike with Kawhi Leonard’s situation in Toronto – would not want to risk injury and the loss of salary should he be injured with his acquiring team.
Q: Ira, all of this focus on gutting our roster for Giannis is ridiculous. He’s past his prime and injury prone at this point. Why should the Heat give up the farm for him? – Ted, Lake Worth.
A: Because if the Heat don’t, someone else will. And teams that have been in the play-in round for four consecutive seasons can be choosy.