NBA Notes: Heat, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Hornets, Jeff Peterson, Nuggets

Heat

Giannis Antetokounmpo made it clear Thursday that he’s eager to begin the next chapter of his career with the Heat.

Speaking at his introductory press conference, Antetokounmpo said he’s motivated “a million percent” as he prepares for his first season in Miami.

“It’s a place I feel like brings pressure, and I thrive under pressure,” Antetokounmpo said, via ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. “It brings the best out of me. … Right now, I’m hungry to win. I want to win and I will do whatever it takes for me to win.”

Heat president Pat Riley admitted he celebrated enthusiastically after completing the blockbuster deal with Milwaukee.

“I yelled. I screamed,” Riley said, according to The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, later describing the acquisition of Antetokounmpo as “nirvana for me.”

Riley added that Miami’s pursuit of Antetokounmpo reflected the organization’s commitment to competing for championships.

Meanwhile, coach Erik Spoelstra said acquiring Bobby Portis alongside Antetokounmpo was a key part of the trade, praising the veteran big man’s shooting, rebounding and defensive versatility.

Hornets

Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson understands many fans were disappointed to see LaMelo Ball traded, but he says difficult decisions come with the job.

Speaking with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, Peterson acknowledged the move was controversial but said front-office executives can’t allow public reaction to dictate basketball decisions.

“When I ultimately made the decision to trade LaMelo, I knew that it was not going to go over well with a lot of the fanbase,” Peterson said. “I understand and respect their position on it. But the minute you start to feed into that, then you can’t do the job.”

Peterson added that while he values fans’ opinions, allowing outside criticism to influence decision-making can leave an organization “paralyzed.”

Nuggets

The Nuggets have officially finalized contracts with free agents Tyus Jones, Alpha Diallo and Marvin Bagley III.

According to Hoops Rumors, all three signed guaranteed one-year veteran minimum contracts.

Diallo’s salary cap hit is lower because he signed at the rookie minimum, though his tax and apron charge matches those of Jones and Bagley under the NBA’s tax variance rules.

MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position