The Boston Celtics are facing uncertainty during the offseason. While much of the talk centered on trimming salary to avoid second-apron restrictions, a new, surprising name has now entered the conversation: Giannis Antetokounmpo.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently suggested that if the Milwaukee Bucks decide to rebuild, Giannis could look to move to the Eastern Conference. He named the Celtics and the New York Knicks as possible destinations.
It’s a significant idea that would change the NBA landscape. But the real question is whether the Celtics would go for it, and if they did, what kind of trade could work under the league’s current salary cap rules would be a big concern.
Exploring The Possibility Of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Trade To The Boston Celtics
NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg explained the situation in simple terms. If the Celtics wanted to make a straight 11 trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, they could only offer Jayson Tatum. Both players are set to earn about the same salary next season, and under second-apron rules, Boston can’t add more salary or combine contracts.
However, trading Tatum, the team’s face, is unlikely despite his Achilles injury shifting their outlook, as Boston’s head coach, Brad Stevens, always believes in a long-term plan. A possible option would involve Jaylen Brown. Forsberg said that getting Giannis would probably require a multi-team deal. Brown would likely be included to match salaries and give the Bucks a key player to build around.
Brown recently signed a supermax deal, which is a significant part of what Boston has built. Still, Giannis is a rare talent. He finished third in MVP voting this season and is still in his prime. Forsberg said, “he would be a difference-maker for your team.” (Via- Yahoo Sports)
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The Celtics are on the shortlist if Giannis ever becomes available, per @WindhorstESPN.
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 31, 2025
Tatum's Achilles injury changed everything. The Celtics built a contender. But now? They're staring at uncertainty.
Brad Stevens has always played the long game. But what if the game just… pic.twitter.com/PxOT5VTiwT
From Milwaukee’s side, the thinking could remain different. If the Bucks feel their championship window is closing, trading Giannis for a young star and draft picks might be their best option. Still, letting go of a player who led the team for years will create a huge step.
Ultimately, Forsberg said he doesn’t see a clear path that works for everyone involved unless multiple teams decide to change their rosters. But if Giannis becomes available, Boston can take that risk.
Also Read: New York Knicks’ Superteam Dreams Revived As Bill Simmons Suggests Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Route
