The Boston Celtics have signaled a willingness to move virtually any asset on the roster, with the sole exception of Jayson Tatum. The front office’s focus appears to be centered on acquiring Milwaukee’s two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, a target that has dominated trade chatter across multiple outlets.
If a Giannis deal does not materialize, the Celtics have identified a potential Plan B in the form of a $61 million forward from Atlanta. That player, highlighted by NESN, would provide the size and versatility the Celtics seek while preserving the core around Tatum. Even without a concrete Plan B, the Hawks’ big men Onyeka Okongwu and Jock Landale have been singled out as ideal fits for Boston’s frontcourt, offering defensive flexibility and emerging perimeter shooting.
Interest in Jaylen Brown has been reported from several clubs, including the Hawks, Rockets and Trail Blazers. Those franchises have been linked to trade scenarios that would see Brown heading to a new home in exchange for assets that could help Boston meet its Giannis ambition. At the same time, analysts have questioned whether the Celtics need to add a true point guard to complement their star-forward tandem, a discussion that has surfaced in recent strategic debates.
In the backcourt, Payton Pritchard earned the 2026 Sharpshooter of the Year award, underscoring his development as a reliable scorer from deep. His emergence adds another layer to the Celtics’ roster calculus, especially as the club evaluates how to integrate additional pieces without disrupting the existing chemistry. The organization is also eyeing the upcoming draft, with particular attention on forward Isaiah Evans from Duke and Arkansas forward Trevon Brazile, both projected as late-first- or early-second-round prospects.
Overall, the Celtics’ aggressive posture reflects a desire to reshape the roster around a potential Giannis acquisition while preserving the core that includes Tatum. By keeping the trade market active, Boston positions itself to explore a range of options, from high-salary veterans to younger draft talent, ensuring flexibility regardless of how the Giannis conversation evolves.