The Boston Celtics made an ambitious attempt to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, offering Jaylen Brown and two unprotected first-round picks. However, the Milwaukee Bucks opted to send Antetokounmpo to Miami. Now, Boston continues its efforts to shop its 2024 Finals MVP.
The Celtics have raised the asking price for Brown. ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that they now seek at least four first-round picks in exchange. Brown, at 29, is coming off a stellar season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, earning second-team All-NBA recognition.
Interest has come from several teams, including the Nuggets, Clippers, Blazers, and Hornets, but no deal has materialized. On ESPN’s ‘Get Up,’ Vince Goodwill criticized Boston’s handling of the situation, stating, “The Celtics have bungled this from the start.” He emphasized the importance of securing adequate resources when making such a trade decision.
“You have a player who’s out there. The league doesn’t want him to the degree that you feel like you’re getting commensurate value,” Goodwill added. “It’s embarrassing for the player who did not ask to be traded.”
Goodwill highlighted that players are usually traded when they express their desire to leave, which is not the case with Brown. Despite his significant contributions to the team, Boston continues to shop him, leading to further criticism.
Brown’s situation contrasts with Kawhi Leonard, who may leave Los Angeles due to stalled contract talks. While Leonard’s trade revolves around contract issues, Brown has neither demanded a trade nor a new contract. He remains professional and committed, helping Boston secure 56 wins and reach the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Although Brown did not request a trade, Boston’s actions reflect a determination to move on. This raises the question of whether any team will meet Boston’s high asking price, considering they may have lost bargaining power.