ASK IRA: Should Heat resist the Carmelo-Knicks scenario with Giannis Antetokounmpo?
Q: Do you think that there could be a possibility that Miami Heat actually acquires Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason to pair him with Bam Adebayo? How likely is it that it could happen? -- Fabian, Boca Raton.
A: First of all, highly, highly, highly unlikely this offseason. There is no need for the Bucks to punt at this stage when it comes to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential 2021 free agency. Now, closer to the trading deadline? That’s another story. But even then, considering the Heat assuredly would have Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler off the table, I can’t fathom what the Heat would have that would entice Milwaukee (no Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, Kendrick Nunn and any remaining draft scraps aren’t enough). Beyond that, on the longshot that Giannis could be in play, it could be similar for the Heat to what the Knicks faced with Carmelo Anthony at the 2011 trading deadline. That’s when, instead of waiting to sign Anthony in free agency the following offseason with their available and ample cap space, the Knicks instead gave up Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Raymond Felton, Timofey Mozgov and a first-round pick to Denver. So, basically, if the Heat’s intel is that they could acquire Giannis into cap space in July 2021 (or whenever the 2021 offseason is), then why give up assets such as Tyler Herro simply to move up such an acquisition by mere months?
Q: With Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo not shooters I think Heat should be looking for a power forward who can shoot -- Davis Bertans. What do you think? -- Maria, Miami.
A: That they can’t afford Davis Bertans at what his price would be, for the role they need. I agree that you need to surround Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo with three shooters, as the Heat did in the playoffs with Duncan Robinson, Jae Crowder and Tyler Herro/Goran Dragic. But if Crowder isn’t cost effective enough in free agency to return in that role, there always is the Kelly Olynyk option (assuming he opts in). And you simply can’t forfeit your potential 2021 cap-space windfall for Davis Bertans, with all due respect.
Q: I’m impressed with Chris Silva’s talent and energy. How do you and the Heat view him? -- Steven.
A: I can’t speak for the Heat (or at least shouldn’t). But I view him as a viable low-cost energy player off the bench capable of regular-season minutes (until the fouls run out). But that this point, with such a limited offensive game, I’m not sure there is much more there. Basically, it’s a roster spot for Chris until someone better comes along. The lack of summer league this offseason, for another prospect to develop, certainly works in his favor.
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