As Miami Heat continues to be linked with Giannis Antetokounmpo, new reports suggest the Boston Celtics may still be in the race for the Bucks superstar. With a potential package centered around Jaylen Brown, Boston could emerge as a serious contender if Milwaukee decides to explore trade options.
The race for Giannis Antetokounmpo may not be as straightforward as many believed.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo
MIN: 28.87
PTS: 27.58 (63.35%)
REB: 9.78
AS: 5.44
ST: 0.94
BL: 0.67
TO: 3.19
GM: 36
For weeks, the Miami Heat have been viewed as one of the strongest candidates to land the Milwaukee Bucks superstar if he becomes available. Some reports and discussions around the league even suggested Miami had emerged as the clear frontrunner.
However, a new update from Bill Simmons indicates the Boston Celtics could still be very much involved in the pursuit of the two-time NBA MVP.
Speaking on his podcast, Simmons revealed that Boston may not be out of the picture despite previous suggestions that the franchise was no longer actively pursuing Antetokounmpo.
Simmons believes Boston remains in the mix
Earlier this week, Simmons indicated that the Celtics appeared to be out of the running for Giannis. Now, he has changed his stance and believes Boston could still be exploring a potential move.
"I think they were playing a little possum; I think they're in on Giannis," Simmons said on his podcast. "I don't really know the reasons for it. Maybe they felt Miami's offer was an offer they can beat. Maybe they want to drive the price of Miami's offer up, and they actually don't have interest in him. But as I said, Giannis is pushing for Miami or Boston, and really wants to end up in Boston because he would have the best chance to win a title, and I think Boston isn't ruling out the idea."
The comments suggest that while Miami continues to be heavily linked with Antetokounmpo, the Celtics could still emerge as a serious challenger if trade talks advance.
Why Boston could have an advantage
One of the biggest factors in any potential Giannis deal is the trade package that would be sent to Milwaukee.
According to Simmons, Boston may have the assets necessary to put together a stronger offer than several rival teams. A deal involving a player of Jaylen Brown's caliber could immediately attract the Bucks' attention if Milwaukee decides to move on from its franchise cornerstone.
The Celtics remain one of the NBA's top contenders and could offer both proven talent and additional assets in a blockbuster trade package.
That possibility may explain why Boston continues to be mentioned despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise.
The Bucks star is set to earn $58.5 million next season and also holds a player option worth $62.8 million for the 2027-28 campaign.
Like what we are doing? You can express your gratitude here.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.