Celtics Gain Traction as Possible Destination for Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Talks
Milwaukee Bucks standout Giannis Antetokounmpo appears set for a potential move from the Badger State this offseason, with the Boston Celtics being mentioned as a possible trade destination.
Potential Pairing of Antetokounmpo and Jayson Tatum
Ever since Jayson Tatum sustained an Achilles injury during the NBA playoffs, trade talks surrounding the Celtics have primarily revolved around players like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jaylen Brown. However, the discussion about Boston's trade priorities for the upcoming summer has been less prevalent. The team needs a young All-Star big man and frontcourt depth to compete with teams like the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers.
In a May 29 episode of ESPN's "Get Up," NBA insider Brian Windhorst mentioned the Celtics as one of the most likely destinations for Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade. Windhorst suggested that a move for Giannis would be preferable for him if he holds the control, and he sees the East as the location for such a move.
Boston's Potential Trade Package
For Antetokounmpo to request a trade from the Bucks, the preferred team should already be a playoff contender, given the Bucks' 2022-23 season performance. As per Spotrac, the nine-time All-Star is projected to earn an estimated $54.12 million in 2025-26 and $58.45 million in 2026-27, with a $62.78 million player option for 2027-28.
A potential trade for Antetokounmpo would likely involve Boston giving up Jaylen Brown, due to the young player's five-year, $285.39 million contract being the most logical in terms of salary matching. In addition to trading Brown, the Celtics could even include Holiday in a possible trade package, which would provide the Bucks with a defensive boost under Doc Rivers.
Although the Celtics might not become involved in the Antetokounmpo sweepstakes at this time, the appealing prospect of pairing him with talent like Tatum (when healthy) makes them a candidate to land the two-time MVP for their future prospects. However, navigating the complexities of a trade—including salary cap concerns and roster restructuring—will be crucial for either team.
In light of Brian Windhorst's comments on ESPN's "Get Up", the Boston Celtics could be a potential destination for NBA MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade. The Celtics' pursuit of Antetokounmpo would necessitate a trade that centers around players like Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday, given Brown's five-year contract and Holiday's potential to bolster the Bucks' defense. Such a move, if successful, could see Antetokounmpo join forces with Jayson Tatum in the NBA playoffs, further boosting the Celtics' basketball prowess in the sports arena.
