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With the big news of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo getting a huge contract extension, the Miami Heat's Bam Adebayo was also able to receive one, but the deadline has passed.
While at first glance that might worry Heat fans, it's really not a huge deal and if anything, Adebayo benefits more by waiting until the season is over. Because he hasn't reached the criteria to be eligible for a max/supermax extension, he's basically betting on himself for a huge 2023-24 season.
However, Adebayo told the media after Tuesday's practice that he isn't worried about contract talks between himself and the team, but is focused on the season opener tomorrow.
“Right now, I'm worried about getting this game started,” Adebayo said. “Me and my agent, my family have talked about everything obviously behind the scenes with the extensions and all that. But the biggest thing is playing basketball.”
Asked Bam Adebayo about his eagerness to get into the season after how everything ended last go-around. He also talks about his extension deadline. #HEATCulture pic.twitter.com/DRUPmDJjn4
— Zachary Weinberger (@ZachWeinberger) October 24, 2023
Adebayo wasn't shocked at all when hearing about Antetokounmpo's contract extension as he said the former MVP was in a “great position” and that he's doing what's best for his family. He also mentioned how in the same vein, Adebayo's future decisions will be the best for the people around him.
To be eligible for a max contract, one of the requirements is to make an All-NBA team by the end of the season according to Sportskeeda. Which to get that accolade, he has to play at least 65 games besides performing at a high-level. Last season, the Heat big-man averaged 20.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Topping those numbers plus his consistent elite defensive abilities could get him to where he needs.
Bam Adebayo on the upcoming season
There's no doubt that the Heat has more doubters coming into this season after an extraordinary playoff run that brought the team to the NBA Finals once again. Adebayo said that people will end up being shocked with how they'll progress throughout the season.
“I feel like we're coming into this season surprising a lot of people,” Adebayo said. “The same way that happend where to Gabe Vincent where y'all didn't know who their names were and they try to prove themselves throughout the season. I feel like that's going to happen this season.”
While it was an incredible rollercoaster last go-around, the Heat still lost to the Denver Nuggets in five games in the Finals. For Adebayo, it's not about focusing on the recent past, but about the process to get back to the success they're used to.
“I would say just cherishing the moments, not just rushing yourselves into a season. Cherishing the process of what we got going on. We're taking it a game at a time and we'll see where we're at at the end of the season.”
The Heat open the season tomorrow night against the Detroit Pistons at the Kaseya Center at 7:30 p.m. (EST) in the hopes of Adebayo's best season to date. It would be key to open with the first win at home as they embark on a three-game road test after.
