The Boston Celtics have emerged as one of the many potential landing spots for Giannis Antetokounmpo if he turns down an extension with the Milwaukee Bucks.
On Monday, NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that the Bucks are expected to ask Antetokounmpo to sign an extension this summer, and "by all accounts," he will say no. That will essentially force the Bucks to trade him with one year remaining on his deal. Many insiders have tabbed the Celtics as a realistic suitor, and Bob Manning noted on Tuesday that the Celtics are interested and that things could happen "quickly."
"I don't know what the package is going to look like," Manning said on "Celtics Daily." "I know we're going to do some videos later this week about Celtics trade possibilities. Obviously clear the Celtics have some interest in making this happen, and this thing could speed up quickly here."
The Celtics are interested, and the move actually makes plenty of sense. Brad Stevens has already noted a desire to get better at the rim. The price for Giannis would seemingly have to include Jaylen Brown. His contract would have to be moved, and according to NBA insider Jake Fischer, a third team may have to get involved to take Brown.
"Despite the risks, I think if you're playing for championships, this is the kind of move you do. You know he has the drive. You know his defensive aptitude. There are so many things he brings to the table. Obviously, your shooting gets a little bit worse, but it's not like Jaylen (Brown) is lighting the world up from three either, and you do need to slide a wing over to center based on where your roster is right now. You just don't have a way to upgrade at center in a straightforward fashion. We saw what the Pacers just paid to acquire (Ivica) Zubac. Why not pay that premium for a superstar, and not just a guy who's filling that role at a high level?"
Antetokounmpo is a two-time MVP and already has one NBA Championship. He and Tatum could be a phenomenal duo and bring another championship to Boston.
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