NBA Trade Rumors: Insider Drops Big Update on Heat's Pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis

Some of the biggest names possibly on the trade market before the NBA trade deadline are Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis. However, the latest rumors suggest that one of the teams linked to both players, the Miami Heat, is not ready to strike at the deadline.

Speaking on his "Insider Notebook" podcast on Bleacher Report, NBA insider Jake Fischer shared some insights on the Heat's pursuit of a big name in this season's trade market. Fischer reported that teams around the league believe Antetokounmpo and Davis prefer to get traded in the offseason.

Fischer added that in the case of the Heat, it's a more plausible time to go after both stars in the summer. The Heat have only two available first-round picks to trade this season, but the number jumps to four once the NBA calendar flips to the 2026-27 campaign.

"For one particular example, Miami, whether it's going for after AD or Giannis, hypothetically, the Heat only have access to two first-round picks right now to trade," Fischer said. "Come June 30th at 6 p.m. ET, when the calendar flips to the 26-27 season, Miami already has access to four first-round picks, two additional picks. So, there's just a greater likelihood, I think, of a deal for either of these guys happening in the summer."

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Giannis Antetokounmpo has stayed quiet regarding a possible trade request despite all the rumors since the offseason. Antetokounmpo even called out a reporter recently for asking him if he wants to continue playing for the Milwaukee Bucks.

On the other hand, there is more chatter surrounding Anthony Davis and the Dallas Mavericks. Jake Fischer also reported teams like the Toronto Raptors and Chicago Bulls have "checked in" on Davis' availability.

Marc Stein of The Stein Line reported the other day that the Hawks are interested in Davis.

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Bucks not trading Giannis Antetokounmpo without 'forceful' request

Bucks not trading Giannis Antetokounmpo without 'forceful' request. (Photo: IMAGN)

According to ESPN's Jamal Collier, the Milwaukee Bucks were not actively talking to teams since Dec. 15, when multiple players became eligible for trade. The Bucks were reportedly buyers and were looking to add scoring. They were linked to players like Zach LaVine, Malik Monk and Jerami Grant.

Shams Charania added that if the Bucks don't improve their play and Giannis Antetokounmpo wants out of Milwaukee, a "forceful" request is needed from the side of the two-time MVP to make it happen.

One source told ESPN that "The Greek Freak" is wary of being seen as a villain, especially if he forces his way out of the Bucks.

Edited by Juan Paolo David