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• Updated Jun 22, 2026 at 2:18pm

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 02: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks works out before the game against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum on March 02, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

Kendrick Perkins did not say Giannis Antetokounmpo is definitely headed to the Boston Celtics. But the former Celtics big man gave Boston fans the kind of comparison that will only make the rumor cycle louder.

Perkins reacted to a post claiming Antetokounmpo was projected to be traded to Boston by writing, “Paul Pierce and KG all over again!!!”

That is a loaded message in Boston. Perkins was part of the Celtics’ 2008 championship team after Kevin Garnett joined Pierce and Ray Allen, instantly turning Boston from a struggling team into the NBA’s standard. Now, with Antetokounmpo being linked to the Celtics, Perkins is pointing to the same kind of franchise-altering swing.

The difference is that this is not just idle fan chatter. The Celtics and Miami Heat are believed to be the leading contenders in trade talks with the Milwaukee Bucks for Antetokounmpo, with ESPN reporting that a deal is expected before the 2026 NBA Draft. Reuters also reported that Boston’s offer centers on Jaylen Brown, while Miami’s offer includes cost-controlled players and draft picks.

That is what gives Perkins’ message real weight. This is not merely about whether Giannis would look good in green. It is about whether the Celtics would be willing to make another ruthless, legacy-defining trade to extend their championship window.