Bill Simmons on Giannis-to-Miami Trade Talk: “It Just Puts Him in the Same Situation”
On a recent episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, the longtime NBA analyst weighed in on the much-discussed hypothetical: Could the Miami Heat trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo? While intrigued, Simmons voiced skepticism about the practicality and impact of such a move—especially from Milwaukee’s side.
> “I wish Miami had one more guy,” Simmons said. “Because there’s a Bam and all your picks for Giannis type of framework that I think would work, but it just puts Giannis in the same situation he’s in now.”
Simmons’ point centers around the roster depth and supporting cast. If Miami has to trade Bam Adebayo and all of their remaining draft capital, Giannis would arrive to a Heat team stripped of its elite defender, a key playmaker, and future assets. Essentially, it would recreate what he’s experienced in Milwaukee: one superstar, limited depth, and heavy pressure to carry a team with minimal flexibility.
From a financial and structural standpoint, such a deal is feasible. But basketball-wise, Simmons questions whether it actually helps Giannis win more than he would by staying put or considering a team with a more complete core already in place.
For the Heat, trading for Giannis would be franchise-altering. But losing Bam—arguably the team’s heartbeat on defense and a key culture-setter—makes it a high-risk, high-reward scenario.
Until Miami can add another real asset—whether that’s a rising star or valuable picks—it’s hard to imagine a Giannis trade giving both sides what they need.
As Simmons summed it up: “It’s a flashy idea, but maybe not a functional one—yet.”
