Giannis Trade Talks Intensify; Heat Lead Chase as Celtics Weigh Options
giannis-trade-talks-heat-celtics-hornets-draft-picks
June 2026 — The Miami Heat remain the most persistent suitor for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, and league sources say the forward is open to a long-term future in South Florida. However, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reports that the Milwaukee Bucks are still unconvinced by Miami’s current offer and continue to engage other teams.
Heat in front, but Bucks shop around
Milwaukee’s front office is treating a potential Antetokounmpo deal as a decision that will shape the franchise for the next five to ten years, according to Windhorst. While the Bucks have not ruled out Miami’s proposal, they are canvassing the market to ensure they do not misjudge the value of their franchise cornerstone.
Celtics monitoring, Brown’s future in spotlight
Windhorst adds that Antetokounmpo would also be willing to sign an extension with the Boston Celtics. Boston, though, is hesitant for several reasons: the club is wary of negotiations that involve player agents, it has already reached championship contention with the Jayson Tatum–Jaylen Brown tandem, and acquiring Antetokounmpo would require a major tactical overhaul.
Frequent trade chatter involving Brown is another concern. Boston Globe columnist Gary Washburn told NBC Sports Boston that constant rumors could affect Brown’s mindset entering a critical season. Washburn believes the Heat currently have the edge but says Boston is “sniffing around” to determine whether a deal is possible—ideally without including Brown—and what exactly Milwaukee seeks in return.
Thunder shut down Holmgren inquiries
Following Chet Holmgren’s underwhelming performance in the Western Conference finals, Oklahoma City made clear it has no intention of moving the 7-footer this offseason. The Thunder have delivered that same message directly to interested teams, Zach Lowe of The Ringer reports.
Hornets, Grizzlies eye lottery movement
The Charlotte Hornets, searching for a frontcourt boost, are open to trading one of their two first-round picks (No. 14 or No. 18) if the right player becomes available, says ESPN’s Jeremy Woo. Charlotte reportedly spoke with the Sacramento Kings about All-Star center Domantas Sabonis but balked at surrendering either first-rounder.
Rival executives expect the Memphis Grizzlies to explore packaging assets to climb from No. 16 and secure a second lottery selection, Woo adds. Memphis executed a similar move last year, jumping from No. 16 to No. 11 to draft Cedric Coward and still holds a cache of future picks.
No. 17 pick viewed as trade chip
Oklahoma City’s No. 17 selection is widely considered the first-round pick most likely to be dealt on draft night, according to Woo. The Thunder are expected to be among the most active teams in negotiations leading up to and during the draft.
Source: HoopsRumors
