If Giannis Antetokounmpo is genuinely looking to continue his NBA career elsewhere this offseason, the Boston Celtics have to be on his radar. If so, there could absolutely be mutual interest there, with The Athletic's Sam Amick and Eric Nehm (subscription required) reporting that the Celtics showed a level of interest at the NBA Trade Deadline and could very well reignite it this summer.
Celtics have a lot for a superstar to like
Above all else, Giannis wants to contend. If the Bucks were competitive, he'd never leave. Boston is one of the premier contenders in the NBA. Even with Jayson Tatum out for most of the season, they were one of the best teams. Of course, they came crashing down in the postseason, but this team is still a top contender with its core largely locked down.
Part of the reason they are contenders is Coach Joe Mazzulla. Giannis clearly has some admiration for Boston's lead man, bringing him up unprompted in a recent interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Lori Nickel (subscription required). The Greek forward praised Muzzulla for not making any excuses with Tatum hurt and rallying his guys together, rightfully.
Sticking in the Eastern Conference is also something Giannis might desire, per the two insiders here. Given how loaded the Western Conference is, it makes sense. The shorter flights to Greece probably come in useful there as well. From the coach to the conference to the competitive spirit, the Celtics have all the makings to be a legitimate Giannis suitor if he does indeed ask out.
Milwaukee's perspective on a possible trade
Obviously, trading Giannis to what was their biggest rival a few short years ago would sting Milwaukee quite a bit. Yet, if their hands are tied, the Bucks could look to get a solid package, which would center around Jaylen Brown and draft capital. When assessing all of the mock trades making the rounds, it's far from the worst offer.
It feels unlikely that they'd look to keep Jaylen Brown themselves, given that he's nearing 30 years old and Milwaukee's focus post-Giannis would likely revolve around youth. Like when Boston traded for Jrue Holiday after Milwaukee traded him to Portland, perhaps the Bucks could reroute Brown to load up on even more assets if something like this went down.
If a Giannis trade is inevitable, trading him to Boston would sting, but they do certainly possess the type of assets that could make for a compelling return.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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