The NBA world can finally move on from the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga after the Miami Heat prevailed in the race for the superstar forward.
However, speculation surrounding LeBron James continues to grow, and former NFL star Chad Johnson believes the Los Angeles Lakers icon should join forces with Antetokounmpo in Miami.
Chad Johnson Makes Bold Pitch to LeBron James After Heat Acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo
Monday’s blockbuster trade sends Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis to the Heat, while the Milwaukee Bucks receive Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis, three first-round draft picks, including this year’s No. 13 selection, a pick swap, and a second-round pick. The deal has instantly altered the Heat’s roster outlook and heavily boosted their 2027 championship ambitions.
Meanwhile, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that James has yet to fully commit to returning to Los Angeles in free agency. That uncertainty sparked speculation during Monday’s episode of the “Nightcap” podcast, where former NFL star Shannon Sharpe floated the idea of James returning to Miami.
“I like that!” Johnson responded enthusiastically after hearing Sharpe’s take. “LeBron back to Miami with Bobby P and Giannis? Hold on. Let me text LeBron.”
Chad ochocinco tells Shannon sharpe LeBron James needs to come to the Miami heat now with a team of Giannis Antetokounmpo and bam Adebayo https://t.co/Cg0zJDsNVo pic.twitter.com/axSSPn2iPa
— joebuddenclips/fanpage (@Thechat101) June 23, 2026
James’ departure from Miami in 2014, when he rejoined his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers, wasn’t exactly smooth. Still, a reunion with the franchise where he won his first two NBA championships would be a major storyline.
With Antetokounmpo now in Miami, pursuing James could further elevate the franchise in the wide-open Eastern Conference. The Heat seem to be fully embracing a win-now approach centered around Bam Adebayo and Antetokounmpo. However, Sharpe questioned how such a frontcourt-heavy roster would function.
“Okay, you got two guys that can protect the paint, but who’s the point guard?” Sharpe asked.
Johnson immediately replied with a simple answer: “LeBron.”
While the star power would be undeniable, Miami still has glaring roster needs, especially perimeter shooting. NBA salary cap analyst Yossi Gozlan pointed out that the team could re-sign Norman Powell for “up to any amount with his Bird rights and even extend him now.”
However, Gozlan noted that the Heat “need to reduce their payroll to create space” to retain Powell and possibly open access to the full $15 million mid-level exception.
That possibility triggered another question from Sharpe.
“Are y’all bringing back Norman Powell?” Sharpe asked.
Johnson, who has repeatedly insisted that his sources expected Antetokounmpo to land in Miami, responded with a humorous remark.
“Pat [Riley] got something up his sleeve. I don’t want to disclose any more information. I’ve already done more than I should,” Johnson quipped. “And once again, I am right, as I am 98% of the time.”
While speculation about Miami targeting James and re-signing Powell will continue, the organization’s current focus likely remains on celebrating Antetokounmpo’s arrival. The two-time MVP and 10-time All-Star led Milwaukee to the 2021 NBA championship and is coming off an injury-shortened season in which he still averaged 27.6 points per game.
