League sources, per Jake Fischer of the Stein Line, indicate that while the Miami Heat have long been viewed as frontrunners for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Boston Celtics are now seen as a serious threat in the race.
The race for Giannis Antetokounmpo may not be as one-sided as it once looked.
For weeks, the Miami Heat have been viewed around the league as one of the strongest potential landing spots for the Milwaukee Bucks superstar if he ever becomes available in a trade.
Some even believed Miami had already positioned itself as the clear frontrunner in the sweepstakes.
However, new league chatter suggests the Boston Celtics are still very much in the conversation and more importantly, they are being viewed as a real threat that could seriously complicate Miami's path to landing the two-time MVP, per Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Tatum connection and trade flexibility add intrigue
Another layer to Boston's positioning is the personal connection between Giannis and Jayson Tatum. Both players share skills coach Drew Hanlen, and Antetokounmpo is believed to have some level of interest in Boston as a potential landing spot.
In addition, league sources noted that Boston has not been actively engaged in serious trade discussions involving Jaylen Brown following his strong 2025-26 season.
However, that scenario has also not been fully ruled out, leaving the door open for a blockbuster framework if needed.
Antetokounmpo is set to earn $58.5 million next season and also holds a player option worth $62.8 million for the 2027-28 campaign, making any potential deal one of the most complex in recent NBA history.
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