Celtics could pivot to Pelicans young star amid Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors

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The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors are at an all-time high with the NBA offseason in full swing. Several teams, including the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics, have been linked to the Milwaukee Bucks superstar. However, the Celtics may have a Plan B in place involving the New Orleans Pelicans if they don’t land “The Greek Freak.”

The team reportedly aims to part ways with Jaylen Brown and his huge contract and pair Antetokounmpo with Jayson Tatum. However, The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported on Friday that Boston may target Trey Murphy III.

MORE: 3 team NBA blockbuster trade involving Giannis Antetokounmpo gaining momentum

“Then again, the Celtics’ desperation level isn’t at the level of the Heat’s. Boston could forge ahead with the Brown-Jayson Tatum dynamic duo and look for other ways to upgrade the frontcourt,” Amick wrote. “To that end, league sources say the Celtics are among the many teams with interest in the New Orleans Pelicans’ Trey Murphy III (if they don’t land Antetokounmpo).”

While Murphy does not match the same level as Antetokounmpo, he can make a huge impact.He just finished a season where he averaged career-highs of 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

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Apr 12, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo looks on after the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Trey Murphy III comparison​


Antetokounmpo has achieved more in the NBA than Murphy. He is a one-time champion, one-time Finals MVP, two-time NBA MVP and 10-time All-Star, among other accolades. However, he was limited to only 36 games last season. There are questions surrounding his availability for the coming years. The size of his deal has also been a challenge for front offices to maneuver.

Murphy, on the other hand, is five years younger than Antetokounmpo and hasn’t reached his peak. He is also signed to a smaller contract, making him a more affordable option for Boston. The 26-year-old suited up for 66 regular-season games last season.

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