NBA Trade Rumor: 3-Team Blockbuster Sends Giannis Antetokounmpo To Celtics

May 27, 2026 , ,


The names Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaylen Brown seem to be intertwined a lot on the rumor mill as we head toward summer. In the case of the former, the two-time MVP is almost a certainty to be dealt by Milwaukee. But as for the latter, there's no real definitive word on the Celtics or Brown wanting to part ways. 

But that doesn't stop the rumors from circulating. Brown's buddy Tracy McGrady said on a podcast recently that Brown was frustrated with the Celtics this season. So it's a situation that could see anything developing. 

To that end, NBA analyst Jake Weinbach has proposed a three-team blockbuster deal that could satisfy all parties involved.

The Celtics would land Giannis, Brown would head to Portland to team up with a returning Damian Lillard and breakout star Deni Avdija, while the Bucks would get an entire exciting young backcourt for the future in Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson, plus a slew of high-end draft assets.

Why the Celtics would do it

Sure, Boston already won a title with Brown paired up with Jayson Tatum. But so many of their supporting pieces are gone, they need to rethink how to get back to the NBA Finals. Putting the Greek Freak on the court with Tatum gives them a chance. 

NBA Insider Marc Stein says that Boston is now one of Giannis's two prefered destinations. 

I’ve heard... Miami and Boston are increasingly perceived to be the potential trade destinations that currently — underline currently — most intrigue Milwaukee’s Antetokounmpo.

Why Milwaukee would do it

The Bucks would be going into a rebuild situation if they trade Giannis, and would probably not want to take on the three years that remain on Brown's massive five-year, $285 million contract. But getting the athletic young backcourt of Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson plus three first-round picks? Now, THAT'S the way to kick off a rebuild.

Why Portland would do it

The Trail Blazers would be giving up a lot here. But let's face it, they've been looking for a way to move Jerami Grant for a couple of years now. As for losing Sharpe and Henderson? That would hurt, but they do have Lillard coming back into the fold in the backcourt next season, and pairing him with Brown and Avdija could make them instant contenders. It would be an all-in move, sacrificing the future to give Lillard a shot at some glory in Portland before he has to call it quits. 


Photo: © Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | MLB Rumors | NHL Rumors