Breaking Down a Potential Celtics Trade Package for Giannis Antetokounmpo
The idea of Giannis Antetokounmpo suiting up in Celtics green is tantalizing — a dream pairing of the two-time MVP with one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. While there’s no indication the Milwaukee Bucks are actively shopping Giannis, hypotheticals gain traction in the offseason, especially if teams fall short of expectations. If the Celtics wanted to make a serious play for Giannis, here’s a breakdown of what a realistic trade package might look like, and the implications on both sides.
The Celtics’ Assets
Boston boasts a deep and talented roster, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Tatum is considered untouchable, leaving Brown as the centerpiece of any serious trade conversation. Brown signed a five-year, $304 million supermax extension in 2023 — a deal that makes him both a valuable and expensive asset.
Beyond Brown, Boston could offer a combination of high-end role players and draft picks. Derrick White, Al Horford, and Payton Pritchard could be used as salary ballast or sweeteners. Promising younger players like Sam Hauser or Jordan Walsh could also be included. Boston has limited draft flexibility due to trades but still holds future first-rounders and swaps that could be packaged.
Sample Trade Framework
Celtics Receive:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
Bucks Receive:
- Jaylen Brown
- Derrick White
- Payton Pritchard
- 2026 first-round pick (unprotected)
- 2028 first-round pick (top-3 protected)
- 2030 first-round swap
This hypothetical trade gives Milwaukee a star wing in Brown to keep them competitive post-Giannis, while also gaining draft capital and depth in White and Pritchard. It’s a win-now and future-minded deal, assuming the Bucks decide a rebuild or retool is necessary.
Why Boston Would Do It
Pairing Giannis with Tatum would instantly create the most devastating two-way forward tandem in the league. Giannis brings rim protection, elite transition play, and unmatched physical dominance. With him in the fold, Boston could slide Tatum back to the wing, keeping a strong defensive identity while gaining even more offensive versatility.
Of course, losing Brown — a top-20 player in his own right — isn’t ideal. But Giannis is in a tier above. For a franchise chasing Banner 18, it’s a gamble worth considering.
Why Milwaukee Might Consider It
If Giannis were to request a trade — or signal unwillingness to re-sign long term — the Bucks would be wise to get maximum value before his contract expires. Brown offers a legitimate foundational piece, and the draft picks help restock a bare cupboard. This would not be a teardown, but rather a reset around a new star.
Final Thoughts
A trade for Giannis is more fantasy than reality — for now. But if Milwaukee’s future looks uncertain or if the Celtics fall short in the playoffs again, both franchises could be forced into difficult conversations. For Boston, the allure of pairing Tatum with Giannis may be too powerful to ignore, even at the cost of breaking up a successful core.
