Bucks
The Bucks reportedly considered multiple strong offers before ultimately agreeing to send Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Heat.
According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Jamal Collier, Milwaukee received “at least four” legitimate trade proposals for Antetokounmpo, but several never gained traction because the two-time MVP wasn’t prepared to commit to a long-term extension with those teams.
The Heat and Celtics emerged as the finalists, largely because Antetokounmpo was willing to sign an extension with either franchise.
After receiving final proposals from both clubs Sunday, Bucks decision-makers spent Monday debating which offer to accept. ESPN reported there were “spirited debates” within the organization before Milwaukee ultimately chose Miami’s package.
General manager Jon Horst had long favored the framework of the Heat’s proposal, according to the report, and Miami strengthened its offer by including the No. 13 overall pick once it became eligible to be traded.
Boston, meanwhile, was unwilling to include young players such as Hugo Gonzalez or Baylor Scheierman, a factor that seemingly helped tilt the decision in Miami’s favor.
Pelicans
Despite continued speculation, the Pelicans are not actively shopping Trey Murphy III or Herbert Jones, according to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Stein and Fischer reported that New Orleans has been willing to listen to inquiries, but cautioned against interpreting that as an effort to move either player.
The Pelicans explored the possibility of acquiring a pick later in the first round earlier this week, though the report added the organization never intended to move Murphy or Jones straight up for one of those selections without receiving additional assets.
Rockets
The Rockets may be another team to watch if Kawhi Leonard ever becomes available.
According to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, Houston could join San Antonio and Toronto as destinations where Leonard would be open to signing a contract extension following a trade.
Whether the Clippers have any intention of moving Leonard remains unclear.
Grange reported there is no league-wide consensus on the situation, with one source insisting Los Angeles has no plans to trade the veteran forward — while others believe the sides could ultimately decide it’s time to move in a different direction.
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