NBA Writer Predicts That If Celtics Trade Jaylen Brown It Won't Be For Giannis Antetokounmpo
TL;DR
The Boston Celtics may trade Jaylen Brown this offseason, but it is unlikely to be for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Following a disappointing playoff exit, the Celtics are considering major roster changes.
Key points
- Celtics considering major changes after playoff exit
- Jaylen Brown eligible for $142 million extension
- Celtics blew a 3-1 lead in playoffs
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown
NBA Writer Predicts That If Celtics Trade Jaylen Brown It Won't Be For Giannis Antetokounmpo originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Celtics could be looking to make major changes this offseason following a first-round exit in the NBA Playoffs.
Not only were the Celtics eliminated, but they blew a 3-1 lead for the first time in franchise history. After the loss, there are questions about whether the Celtics can win another championship with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way. Brown is eligible for a two-year, $142 million extension this summer, and could be a trade chip.
While the popular rumor has been the Celtics dumping him and his salary to get Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bleacher Report's Dan Favale thinks he won't get traded to Milwaukee, and if he is traded, it won't be in a deal to land Giannis Antetokounmpo at all. The Bucks probably don't want to build around Brown, who will turn 30 soon and demand a lucrative extension. NBA insider Jake Fischer has noted that if Brown is involved in a deal to get Antetokounmpo to Boston, a third team would need to get involved.
"The Celtics may be more apt to consider scenarios that net them multiple picks and players of their own as they look to stay under the tax for another year and make upgrades to the frontline, ball-handling and creator ranks," wrote Favale. "While yours truly would bet against it happening, this possibility will gain more momentum than the Giannis-to-Boston murmurings."
Brown is a valuable trade chip if the Celtics choose to shop him. He proved that he can be a No. 1 option and lead a team this season. Favale predicted that Brown would get dealt to the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves or Toronto Raptors if he is traded.
Trading Brown for anything less than a two-time MVP like Antetokounmpo could lead fans to be upset. However, it may work out in the long run by adding some picks and talent to help Tatum continue to lead the Celtics.
More NBA: NBA Analyst Explains Why Celtics Are 'Obvious' Fit For Giannis Antetokounmpo
Q&A
Why might the Celtics trade Jaylen Brown?
The Celtics could trade Jaylen Brown as part of major roster changes after their first-round playoff exit.
What is Jaylen Brown's contract situation?
Jaylen Brown is eligible for a two-year, $142 million extension this summer.
What happened to the Celtics in the playoffs?
The Celtics were eliminated in the first round after blowing a 3-1 lead, marking a historic loss for the franchise.
