The Boston Celtics may have just entered the most high-stakes sweepstakes of the NBA offseason. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Celtics are one of a few teams that could realistically pull off a trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and still remain championship contenders in the aftermath.
“I think you have to look at the teams that could make a trade for Giannis that the Bucks would accept and, on the other side of the trade, would have a contending team.”
“So Boston would be on that list. I think New York would be on that list. You know, there’s some difficulties when you talk about aprons and second apron teams trying to make trades, and that’s a reality, but there are some teams in the Eastern Conference you could construct an ability to get this done.”
This revelation comes amid a leaguewide swirl of speculation that Giannis may finally be ready to move on from Milwaukee. With the Bucks suffering yet another postseason letdown and internal uncertainty brewing under head coach Doc Rivers, NBA agents and insiders increasingly believe Antetokounmpo could request a trade this summer.
Rivers, for his part, refused to entertain the rumors. “I talk to him all the time,” he said bluntly when asked about the speculation.
But NBA front offices aren’t moving on. And Boston is now being whispered as a serious, albeit dark-horse, suitor.
The Celtics are at a financial crossroads themselves. With a massive luxury tax bill looming and second-apron penalties constricting roster flexibility, the front office is reportedly exploring a fire sale that would keep only the core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White, while shopping supporting pieces like Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and potentially even Jrue Holiday depending on their future plans.
Despite these tax concerns, Boston has the depth of assets and young talent that Milwaukee might covet in a trade. A package centered around multiple rotation players, future first-round picks, and financial relief could tempt the Bucks if Giannis forces their hand.
From a basketball perspective, Giannis paired with Tatum would instantly form the most athletic and versatile forward duo in the NBA, when the Celtics star returns in 2026.
Tatum’s perimeter scoring and playmaking would complement Giannis’ slashing dominance and defensive prowess.
The question, of course, is whether Boston would be willing to part ways with Jaylen Brown in such a deal. While some analysts believe Boston would prefer to pair Giannis with Brown and Tatum, it’s more likely that Brown, along with key depth pieces, would be required to get Milwaukee’s attention.
The Celtics aren’t the only team circling Giannis.
The Knicks have the draft capital and the depth to go big. A potential offer could center around stars and three or more first-round picks (including ones from Dallas, Milwaukee, or Washington)
A blockbuster out West could see the Warriors offer Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Andrew Wiggins, and multiple future unprotected picks, including their 2026 and 2028 firsts. If Milwaukee sees long-term value in Kuminga’s potential and wants to reset the timeline while remaining competitive, Golden State might be a compelling option.
The Raptors have long been seen as a stealth candidate for a star trade, especially after pulling off the Kawhi Leonard heist in 2018. Their offer could include Scottie Barnes, Bruce Brown, Chris Boucher, and a war chest of picks.
Though more speculative, the most explosive rumor involves a potential Luka Doncic for Giannis swap between the Lakers and Bucks.
Each team brings a unique pitch: Boston offers contention and All-NBA talent, New York brings market and draft capital, Golden State adds dynasty appeal, Toronto offers a superstar prospect, and LA comes with the glamour and blockbuster potential.
Ultimately, Giannis controls much of this saga. If he asks out, Boston’s combination of star power, win-now ability, and tradable assets could give them the inside track, even in a race stacked with suitors.
