Miami Heat – Udonis Haslem, #40
Before the LeBron mega-supporters come after me, just choosing Haslem over “The King” is simply a timing thing. Udonis Haslem just retired after twenty seasons as a member of the Heat.
Udonis Haslem is the team’s all-time leader in rebounds. He ranks second to Dwyane Wade in Miami Heat history in both minutes and games played. Most importantly, he was a key piece of three Miami Heat championship teams.
LeBron will have his number 6 retired in South Beach eventually. Haslem’s number 40 will be the next one raised to the rafters in Miami.
Other Players in Consideration: Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, LeBron James
Milwaukee Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo, #34
Both Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton joined the Bucks in 2013. They have been quite the duo in Milwaukee ever since. In 2021, they led the Bucks to their first championship since 1971.
The “Greek Freak” and “Money” are both under contract for at least the next two seasons. Both will eventually have their jersey numbers hanging from the Fiserv Forum rafters. Middleton is coming off a knee injury and is three years older.
Still, the two-time MVP, 2020 Defensive Player of the Year, and 2021 NBA Finals MVP are the safe bet here.
Other Players in Consideration: Khris Middleton, Michael Redd, Glenn Robinson