Photo: Peter Baba

Jaime Jaquez Jr. is doing his best to tune out the latest wave of trade speculation surrounding the Heat, including reports linking him to a potential package for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Speaking while attending an NBA Finals-related event in Brazil, Jaquez said rumors have become a familiar part of life in Miami, where the front office is frequently connected to star players during the offseason.

“I feel like it’s just the way it is on the Miami Heat team,” the player said.

The third-year forward added that trade speculation has become an annual occurrence and isn’t something he spends much time worrying about.

“Every summer there’s a big rumor.”

Jaquez is also entering an important offseason personally, as he becomes eligible for a rookie-scale contract extension.

The former first-round pick said he would welcome the opportunity to secure his long-term future with the organization.

“I think that’d be incredible,” Jaquez said.

He acknowledged the significance of a second NBA contract and described an extension as a goal shared by most players around the league.

“I think an extension would be great, obviously. That’s what players search for, and I’m no different.”

Southeast Notes: Jaquez, Heat, Giannis, Hornets, Ball https://t.co/pD4Cu3SiQl