Celtics Tired of Waiting as Giannis Trade Talks Drag Into Draft Week

The NBA Draft is less than a week away, and the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga is starting to wear on at least one of the teams involved. The Milwaukee Bucks have been one of the busiest front offices during the draft process, operating as if they’re about to have multiple first-round picks. That’s a pretty strong signal they’re moving the two-time MVP. But the team that wants him most might be losing patience.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Boston Celtics are getting frustrated with the constant speculation linking Giannis to a deal centered around Jaylen Brown. Stein wrote Wednesday that the Celtics are “weary of incessant speculation” and that one source familiar with the situation called all the talk about Brown going to a third team “premature.”

Two Teams Still Talking

Stein also reported that league personnel still view the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics as the two teams maintaining ongoing conversations with Milwaukee about Antetokounmpo. The reason? Both teams believe Giannis would sign a long-term extension with them after a trade. That’s a huge difference from a rental situation, and it explains why they’re still in the mix.

But here’s where it gets complicated. Brown has been the rumored centerpiece of any Celtics package. But what if Boston is trying to keep him out of the deal entirely? That’s unclear. It might also make a trade harder to pull off. The Bucks don’t necessarily want to flip Brown to a third team, but it also doesn’t make sense for them to hold onto him if they’re rebuilding.

The Heat Have Been Ready

Miami, meanwhile, has been offering young players and assets since February, according to league sources. They’ve been the most consistent suitor. The Bucks have asked for young talent and draft capital in return, and the Heat have the pieces to make it work. The question is whether Boston can match or beat that offer without gutting its current roster.

One thing that’s becoming clear: the Celtics don’t want this dragging on much longer. The draft is Thursday. If Milwaukee wants to move Giannis before then, they need to pick a lane. Boston’s patience might have a limit.