Turner Says Antetokounmpo Has Disrupted Miami’s Defensive Identity

Former NBA player Evan Turner said Giannis Antetokounmpo’s arrival has weakened the Miami Heat’s ball movement and defense, two qualities the team has long emphasized. Nine games into Antetokounmpo’s tenure, Miami is 3-6 and trying to establish its identity.

The Heat have allowed more than 110 points in every game this season. Their defensive rating is 118.1, ranking 26th in the NBA. The struggles have come despite a starting group that includes Adebayo, Mitchell, Wiggins and Antetokounmpo, all described as established defenders.

Miami acquired Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks in June, after the Bucks finished 43-39 in the 2025-26 season. Klay Thompson and Tim Hardaway Jr. also joined the Heat, who began the season with four consecutive losses.

Antetokounmpo has averaged 27.3 points, 12.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists while shooting 56%. But after Miami’s 138-117 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on November 2, he said the team was not working hard enough and lacked trust and extra effort. He did not speak to reporters after a 120-100 loss to the Golden State Warriors.