The Miami Heat are surrounded by trade rumors and listed as a “preferred destination” for superstars seemingly every season.
This season, multiple superstars could potentially be on the move. Notably, Milwaukee Bucks two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo could request out from the team if they don’t start winning soon.
The Heat have the right combination of draft capital and young players to facilitate a trade for a potential No. 1 option if Pat Riley and the front office move in that direction.
Second-year center Kel’el Ware is a name that is growing in value across the NBA. Young guards Pelle Larsson or Kasparas Jakucionis also hold value in a potential trade.
With the volatility of midseason trades in the NBA in mind, Dan Favale of Bleacher Report named the top three trade targets for the Heat in 2026.
Milwaukee Bucks Star Giannis Antetokounmpo
GettyThe Miami Heat are expected to be involved in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes.
The Miami Heat are expected to be “sniffing around” in a potential trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The article says: “The Miami Heat need to base anything they do at the trade deadline around his availability.”
The Milwaukee Bucks star has shown interest in potentially being a part of a different organization.
Conversations between Antetokounmpo and the Bucks front office began over the Summer. Those conversations have continued into the season as the Bucks have struggled and the star has battled with injuries.
While Antetokounmpo has not officially requested a trade, where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
The Milwaukee Bucks have told teams they do not plan on trading the Greek star unless he officially requests a trade. In that scenario, the Heat could produce an enticing package.
All-Star Tyler Herro, second-year center Kel’el Ware and draft picks could be on the move in a trade for Antetokounmpo.
New Orleans Pelicans Star Zion Williamson
GettyNew Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson would fit into the Miami Heat’s offense.
New Orleans Pelicans big man Zion Williamson is another potential Miami Heat target. Despite battling injuries and controversy throughout his career, it’s hard to deny his ability.
He’s a career 24.6 points per game scorer who’s never shot less than 55.6% from the field in a season.
The article says: “Zion Williamson is perfect for Miami’s offense, particularly if you trust Ware’s and Bam Adebayo’s ability to space beyond the arc.”
Williamson’s ability to get downhill would fit right in with the Heat’s new fast-paced offensive scheme.
His price tag is cheaper than other potential stars as well. A trade for Williamson would require fewer assets to be dealt and a contract that is team-friendly.
While not landing Antetokounmpo would be disappointing, there’s nothing wrong with an All-Star consolation prize.
Indiana Pacers Bennedict Mathurin
GettyIndiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin could be the Miami Heat’s target if they aren’t able to land a marquee star.
If the Miami Heat are unable to find a trade for a true star, Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin would fit the Heat’s offense.
Despite the Pacers’ struggles this season, Mathurin has been a consistent offensive piece. However, it’s appearing as if the young guard is going to be moved before the NBA trade deadline.
The article says: “Bennedict Mathurin’s leanings jibe with its underlying no-screen philosophy. He is an iffier fit relative to the speed at which they play.”
Additionally, Mathurin becomes a free agent in the offseason, meaning a mid-season trade likely wouldn’t cost the Heat a high price.
Mathurin played meaningful minutes for a Pacers team that nearly won the NBA Finals. In a Heat playoff push, his postseason experience would be beneficial.
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