Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Celtics?: Fans Have Mixed Reactions to Potential Trade
After a bizarre season that saw the Milwaukee Bucks miss the playoffs and Giannis Antetokounmpo announce his commitment to the team, it appears that the Greek Freak's time in Milwaukee may be coming to an end. As first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania, the Bucks are now officially shopping their star and fielding trade offers.
The Milwaukee Bucks are open for business on trade calls and offers for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo entering the NBA combine and over six weeks away from the draft, sources told ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 11, 2026
New on ESPN: https://t.co/dF56qBtMMR
With the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes officially open, one team that has been rumored to acquire the star is the Boston Celtics. Coming off a first-round playoff exit, the Celtics are looking to shake things up, with star Jaylen Brown reportedly frustrated with the team. Reports have also surfaced that the Celtics were in contact with the Bucks about a potential trade for Antetokounmpo at last year's trade deadline, further linking them to the star.
A trade for Antetokounmpo would undoubtedly be a blockbuster, as the Bucks will likely demand multiple picks and players for the former MVP. The Celtics certainly have the capital to make the deal, having the rights to their next two first-round picks and Jaylen Brown as the main piece in their package. While this potential trade would pair two of the best players in the league, Jayson Tatum and Antetokounmpo, Celtics fans have mixed feelings.
The Celtics have been heavily linked to landing Giannis this offseason. But what are they getting?
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 11, 2026
2023: 63 games / back injury in playoffs / lost to Miami
2024: 73 games / calf strain before playoffs / missed entire series
2025: 67 games / knee soreness all year / lost to Indy… pic.twitter.com/8kdAbYkf0y
Some fans are pointing towards Antetokounmpo's durability as a reason why the Celtics should avoid the trade. While he dominates the game when healthy, Antetokounmpo has had issues staying healthy, missing double-digit games 3 out of the last 4 years, including missing Milwaukee's playoff series in 2024.
"The Celtics are one injury away from a rebuild and they want to add the most beautifully broken superstar in the league, Giannis," said one fan on X.
Despite some fans questioning Antetokounmpo's health and his fit on the Celtics roster, many fans are excited about the idea of Giannis heading to Boston. One fan went as far as saying "SEND EVERY PICK TO MILWAUKEE," showing his excitement about acquiring the star.
With the NBA Draft just over a month away, Antetokounmpo's status will be a major story, as Milwaukee will look to rebuild as they ship away its star. The Celtics are one of the top destinations, but teams like the Cavaliers and Heat will also be in the mix. The Lakers and Warriors are expected to try to acquire Antetokounmpo, but he is reportedly more interested in playing in the Eastern Conference.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 11, 2026 at 2:33 PM.