Report: Heat rejecting trade calls on Bam Adebayo

The Heat aren’t budging on Bam Adebayo.

NBA insider Zach Lowe reports that Miami has rejected trade inquiries involving Adebayo and has no interest in moving one of the league’s premier two-way big men. That stance hasn’t changed, even as rival teams continue to check in.

What has changed is the direction of the Heat’s ambition.

Miami is believed to be monitoring the situation of Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the idea of pairing him alongside Adebayo if an opportunity ever presents itself. Both players are represented by Alex Saratsis of Octagon, though that alone doesn’t move deals.

Adebayo remains central to everything the Heat are doing. He’s averaging 17.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and anchoring Miami’s defense while continuing to log heavy minutes on both ends. He’s spent his entire career with the franchise and has been a cornerstone during two Finals runs, in 2020 and 2023.

Miami sits at 19-15, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, and continues to straddle the line between competing now and positioning for a bigger swing.

With Jimmy Butler no longer in the picture after last season’s trade to Golden State, team president Pat Riley is again surveying the landscape for another elite partner to place next to Adebayo.

As for Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee’s stance remains firm. The Bucks have no intention of moving the two-time MVP unless he formally asks out. He explored possibilities last offseason, including interest in the Knicks, but nothing materialized.

If Antetokounmpo ever does push the issue, the belief is that Miami would be among the destinations that make sense.

Until then, the Heat’s message is clear. Adebayo isn’t going anywhere, and any major move they consider would be built around him, not at his expense.