By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The sweepstakes for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has escalated into a two-team race between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat ahead of next week’s 2026 NBA Draft, presented by State Farm.
Despite outside speculation positioning Miami as the lone frontrunner, insider Bill Simmons revealed on The Bill Simmons Podcast that Boston aggressively entered the mix by submitting a formal trade offer within the past week. The former champion reportedly prefers a move to either Boston or Miami, in that order, driven by a desire for a second ring. Antetokounmpo’s leverage remains immense, since he has guaranteed $58.5 million for the upcoming season, followed by a $62.8 million player option he will only extend for his desired destinations.
While the Heat’s current package features Tyler Herro, young assets like Kel’el Ware and Jaime Jaquez Jr., and this draft’s 13th pick, the Celtics appear ready to part ways with almost anyone besides Jayson Tatum. However, because Milwaukee wants a blue-chip foundation alongside draft capital, including a goal of securing an additional first-round selection alongside their own 10th overall pick, a deal with Boston would require a multi-team framework. Facilitators like the Portland Trail Blazers, Atlanta Hawks, or Detroit Pistons could step in to absorb major salaries or route assets back to the Bucks.
Other teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, and New York Knicks, have steered clear of serious contention.
Still, the Greek Freak, who averaged a dominant 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in an injury-shortened 36-game campaign last season, remains open to staying with his lifelong franchise.
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