The Boston Celtics are unlikely to seriously pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo unless they are confident he would commit his long-term future to the franchise.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Boston would be taking a major risk by breaking up its core without guarantees that Antetokounmpo plans to stay beyond his current contract.
Marks questioned whether the Celtics would really consider splitting up Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown if there was uncertainty surrounding Giannis’ future, suggesting the answer should be a firm no given both stars remain under contract for at least three more seasons.
Any realistic deal for Antetokounmpo would almost certainly require Boston to include Brown in the package. The Celtics simply do not have enough trade assets to make a blockbuster move work otherwise.
That reality makes the situation far more complicated for Boston.
The franchise already knows it can win a championship with Tatum and Brown leading the way, so management may prefer to adjust the supporting cast around them rather than completely reshape the roster for one superstar move.
At the moment, that appears to be the more likely path.
Still, the possibility of a major trade should not be dismissed entirely.
Marks pointed out that Boston still controls three tradable first-round picks over the next six years, giving the front office some flexibility if it decides another impact player is needed.
The Eastern Conference is also expected to become even more competitive next season. The Indiana Pacers should improve again with Tyrese Haliburton healthy, while the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers remain strong contenders. Detroit is also continuing its rise, and New York could potentially enter the Giannis race themselves.
Because of that, Boston will likely feel pressure to strengthen the roster if it hopes to remain in title contention.
Finances will also play a major role in shaping the Celtics’ plans. The organization already made moves to get below the luxury tax this season, and there is still uncertainty over how aggressive new owner Bill Chisholm will be financially.
As things currently stand, Boston is projected to sit roughly $21 million below the first apron next season, which gives the front office room to explore trades and roster upgrades if the right opportunity becomes available.
