The Celtics may be an unexpected entry into the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade sweepstakes this summer if reports are true. In an unconventional way, Boston could help the Bucks maximize Giannis’ trade value by offering Derrick White and getting a third team involved. White is a highly-sought talent around the league and could fetch a great return himself, on top of any other assets the Celtics can offer.
A Derrick White trade package could be better than expected
Even though the Celtics lack the blue-chip prospect that Milwaukee wants in a Giannis trade, they can get creative with White’s trade value to find something that works. Since arriving in Boston, White has established himself as arguably the league’s premier role player. He’s not a star himself but he’s capable of elevating his team to dizzying heights by doing all the little things and thriving in a complementary role.
White played a key role in Boston’s 2024 title and has helped the Celtics to the East’s second seed this year despite missing Jayson Tatum for the majority of the season. His counting stats have never been mind blowing, and yet he has a huge impact through his efficiency and defense. In fact, since the start of the Celtics title run in the 2023-24 season, only Nikola Jokic has a higher +/- than White across the NBA.
So it should come as no surprise that White is coveted by many front offices. Any team with strong star power and an insufficient supporting cast could benefit greatly from his services. Even teams that are already elite could reach yet another level with White in the rotation.
The Celtics can solve Giannis’ trade problemÂ
The Bucks have been torn in Giannis trade talks because they want to maximize his value while sending him to a potential title contender. Most teams lack the luxury of riches to afford both a viable trade package and maintain a winning system around Giannis afterwards. But Boston could be the team to accomplish both by including White.
If Giannis really is done with the Bucks this summer, the Celtics will be a perfect team for him to continue building his legacy. He can dominate alongside Tatum and Jaylen Brown while creating a perennial championship contender into his 30s. And the Bucks can get back a nice haul by dangling White to the open market.
It might be tough for Bucks fans to stomach trading Giannis to a rival team, but the deal can benefit both the Bucks and Celtics. This may even be Milwaukee’s best shot at giving Giannis what he wants in a trade without sacrificing any trade value. Of all the rumored suitors, it might ironically be Giannis’ biggest foe that has the right pieces to get a deal done.