Heat get quick updates on LeBron James, Khris Middleton after Giannis Antetokounmpo trade

The Miami Heat might just be getting started.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is now their new superstar after pulling off a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Bucks late Monday night. But names like LeBron James and Khris Middleton have already entered the dialogue, too.

LeBron is the big one, of course, already having played for the Heat in the past.

He's a free agent this offseason, and he doesn't seem to plan on retirement, which opens the door to leaving the Lakers and joining a new team.

MORE: Why the Bucks traded Giannis to the Heat

Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald wrote this about James and the Heat after the Giannis trade:

“The Heat could try to lure impending free agent LeBron James with its full midlevel exception, but a James return is considered a long shot — though nothing can be ruled out.”

So not likely, but not impossible.

James would be able to make more money elsewhere, but maybe a return to South Beach and a chance to play with Giannis would be a big enough draw.

Middleton, who was Antetokounmpo's right-hand man when the Bucks won their championship, would be a logical fit.

“One guy that I already heard attached to them is Khris Middleton," ESPN's Brian Windhorst said Tuesday. "Who obviously has a long history with Giannis and Bobby Portis."

MORE: Giannis legacy with the Bucks remains intact

Middleton is far from his peak self, but he'd be a fun addition for Miami, certainly a guy with a winning pedigree and a comfort level with Giannis.

Once a team gives up a lot of assets to get a superstar, it isn't always easy to do more moves. The Heat certainly seem to be trying to stay busy, though.

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