Giannis Antetokounmpo Has Preferred Landing Spot If Traded: Report

Over the next few weeks leading up to the NBA Draft at the end of June, there should be more clarity regarding the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Milwaukee Bucks.

At the moment, many around the league believe a trade is the most likely outcome, though Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam has maintained that the door remains open for Antetokounmpo to sign a long-term extension and stay in Milwaukee.

Haslam also indicated that the organization would ideally like a decision before this year's draft, which would allow the Bucks to immediately capitalize on any potential trade package involving draft assets.

"We never had any problem communicating directly with Giannis - at all - and always knew where he stood," Haslam said last month. "And I think he always knew where we stood. We’ve had those kind of conversations since the season was over.

"So sometime over the next six or seven weeks, we’ll decide whether Giannis is going to sign a max contract and stay with us, or he’s going to play somewhere else. And Jon and Taylor, along with Wes and myself will make that call, and we understand the gravity of that call."

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There have been several teams linked to Antetokounmpo in trade rumors, but according to NBA on NBC's Grant Liffmann, the two-time MVP reportedly has a desire to play for the Miami Heat.

"Giannis, yes, from everything that we have heard, Giannis wants to be in Miami. Miami wants Giannis. That's all great. Does Milwaukee think they have the best package? That's all that matters.

"Miami also has a lot of swaps available. Those have become more valuable with lottery reform. That matters. If Milwaukee is looking at rebuilding this thing, that matters," Liffmann said.

The Heat could put together a strong trade package depending on what the Milwaukee Bucks are ultimately seeking in return. Miami has multiple pick swaps at its disposal, along with a mix of young talent including Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Pelle Larsson, and Kel’el Ware.

To help match salaries, Miami could also explore including veteran players such as Tyler Herro and Andrew Wiggins in a potential deal for Antetokounmpo.

If a deal were to come together, it would potentially pair Antetokounmpo with Bam Adebayo, giving him a chance to play in one of the league's biggest markets in Miami while forming a formidable frontcourt duo.

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This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 4:02 PM.