Celtics Trade Rumours: Dalzell Claims Boston Has 'Real Interest' In Giannis Antetokounmpo
Speculation mounts over a potential blockbuster swap involving Jaylen Brown ahead of the 23 June 2026 NBA Draft, though timelines and asset valuations remain fluid.
Trade speculation surrounding the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks has intensified ahead of the official start of the NBA offseason, with CLNS reporter Noa Dalzell asserting that Boston holds "real interest" in acquiring Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Speaking on the 28 May 2026 episode of "The Garden Report," Dalzell indicated that while she does not anticipate Antetokounmpo joining the Celtics next season, such a move would not be entirely unexpected given the franchise’s strategic positioning.
The report suggests that the Celtics may be prepared to include guard Jaylen Brown in a trade package to facilitate a deal for the two-time NBA MVP. Dalzell’s comments highlight a willingness within Boston’s front office to consider significant roster changes, although she maintained that the likelihood of the trade ultimately occurring remains low. The assertion places Boston firmly in the conversation, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Bucks’ willingness to part with their franchise cornerstone.
However, the narrative is complicated by conflicting intelligence from other industry observers. ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst stated on Wednesday that he has heard no official buzz or serious discussions between the Celtics and Bucks regarding a potential trade. Windhorst’s assessment suggests that while public speculation is high, there is no concrete evidence of formal negotiations or official links being established between the two organisations at this stage.
The Bucks are expected to remain active in trade discussions for approximately one month, with any potential move for Antetokounmpo likely to occur before the 2026 NBA Draft on 23 June. This timeline provides a narrow window for Boston to enter the mix, although Windhorst’s comments imply that the Celtics are not currently in the running for the forward. The proximity to the draft deadline adds pressure to all parties involved, particularly as asset valuations shift in response to the upcoming selection process.
Analysts have noted that the 2026 draft class is described as unusually deep, with experts suggesting significant value may be available late in the first round, such as at pick 27. This depth influences trade negotiations, as teams weigh the immediate impact of acquiring a superstar like Antetokounmpo against the long-term potential of high-value draft assets. The Celtics’ potential interest in Brown underscores the complexity of balancing current competitiveness with future flexibility in a volatile trade market.
