The Boston Celtics are currently facing significant roster uncertainty as Jayson Tatum is set to miss the entire 2025-26 season, and recent trades have seen Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday move away from the team. Against this backdrop, speculation has intensified around star wing Jaylen Brown, with the Celtics reportedly receiving numerous trade calls. Despite the interest, no serious offers have materialized yet, as the Celtics remain firm on Brown’s value.
Marc Stein reports that while rival teams have inquired about both Brown and teammate Derrick White, Boston has not moved closer to any trade agreements for either player, maintaining a high asking price. The Celtics’ assistant general manager Mike Zarren emphasized that there has been nothing near a serious deal involving Brown or White. Additionally, Austin Ainge, recently departed from Boston’s front office and now working with Utah, denied any trade talks between the Celtics and Jazz concerning Brown.
Nevertheless, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Boston has received calls offering high-value draft picks, including Top 10 picks from the recent NBA draft, as part of potential trade packages for Brown. Given the team’s looming luxury tax obligations and absence of Tatum, Brown’s trade demand could rise if financial constraints tighten.
“Those two guys are really, really great players and there hasn’t been anything close to seriously trading them. Im not sure where all that reporting came from.” —Mike Zarren, Boston Celtics Assistant GM
Evaluating Derrick White’s Trade Potential for Celtics’ Roster Flexibility
While the Celtics appear determined to keep Jaylen Brown, trading Derrick White seems a more feasible option to relieve salary cap pressure. White’s contract and excellent performance make him a valuable trade asset, although Boston is reportedly seeking a Mikal Bridges-level return. Such a package likely requires several future first-round picks, given Bridges’ recent trade value.
New York Knicks reporter Ian Begley confirmed that Boston has communicated with teams like San Antonio about deals that could yield lottery picks, suggesting active trade market exploration for White. However, Boston’s preference remains to retain both White and Brown for the next season, despite some openness to offers.
Analyst Bobby Marks believes the projected starting backcourt for Boston in 2025-26, consisting of White and Anfernee Simons, might look considerably different by training camp, indicating possible roster moves are forthcoming.
“The Celtics have a high price threshold for both of these players. They know how great Jaylen Brown and Derrick White are, so I am sure they are getting some massive offers, some pretty big-time calls as well,” —Shams Charania, NBA Insider
Other Major NBA Trade Rumors and Player Status Updates
Paul George Trade Speculation in Philadelphia
Paul George’s name has surfaced in trade discussions involving the Philadelphia 76ers heading into the draft. Chris Mannix mentioned uncertainty around the Sixers’ plans to use their No. 3 overall pick or possibly package it with George to move down in the draft order.
However, a league source sharply contested these rumors, describing them as “nonsense.” George’s sizeable contract, which includes three remaining seasons potentially worth $162.4 million, may be a factor deterring potential trades unless injury circumstances shift.
“I don’t know what Philadelphia is going to do here. Do they just sit on that draft pick and take it? Or do they try to package it? Is Paul George in play? I’ve heard some of that over the last 24 hours—that they could be looking to trade back with Paul George to do something there.” —Chris Mannix, NBA Reporter
“It has been frequently reported this month that the Sixers were exploring the prospect of trading down a couple spots in the lottery… Nonsense,” said one league source briefed on Philly’s thinking.
DeMar DeRozan’s Availability and Miami Heat Interest
DeMar DeRozan has been linked to the Miami Heat as a possible trade target, especially for teams missing out on high-profile players like Kevin Durant. The Kings’ forward is widely viewed as available, positioning him as a fallback option for contenders.
Nevertheless, recent intelligence from Miami Herald journalists states that DeRozan has not factored into Miami’s current trade discussions. The Sacramento Kings also confirm no talks with the Heat regarding him thus far, although this could change now that the Durant sweepstakes concluded.
“The Kings’ DeMar DeRozan is another former All-Star who is widely perceived to be available via trade and who could emerge as a fallback trade target for teams that miss out on Durant.” —Marc Stein, NBA Insider
“Two players who have been linked to Miami in published reports – Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan (who is said to be available) and Golden State impending restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga – had not been the focus of Heat discussions as of Sunday afternoon.” —Miami Herald Sources
“Regarding the Miami Heat’s reported interest in DeMar DeRozan and the Toronto Raptors’ interest in Malik Monk, I’m told the Sacramento Kings have yet to discuss those players with those teams, but things could change now that a winner has emerged in the Kevin Durant sweepstakes.” —Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee
Memphis Grizzlies Commit to Building Around Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant
Following the trade of Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, there had been speculation that the Memphis Grizzlies might enter a rebuild phase, potentially trading key pieces including Jaren Jackson Jr. However, sources confirm that Memphis is committed to retaining Jackson and Morant as their franchise cornerstones.
The team has strategically cleared salary cap space to facilitate Jackson’s contract extension ahead of his restricted free agency in 2026. NBA insiders expect this extension to exceed $200 million, underscoring the Grizzlies’ intent to invest in their young star.
Brian Windhorst dismissed the idea of the Los Angeles Lakers pursuing Jackson despite their need for a big man, describing such a trade as “no chance.” Meanwhile, Memphis is also fending off external interest in restricted free agent Santi Aldama, aiming to maintain core player stability.
“By trading Bane, long part of the core in Memphis with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., Kleiman is acting on those words. But more star trades are not expected. Sources told ESPN that the Grizzlies are not looking to deal either of their two remaining franchise cornerstones.” —ESPN Report
“We know the Lakers need a big. Jaren Jackson—does that feel like pie in the sky? A dream scenario? No chance. Absolutely not worth a discussion. I think Jaren Jackson is now in position to sign a contract extension of over $200 million.” —Brian Windhorst, ESPN
“Sources say that Memphis, in the wake of the Desmond Bane trade, is focused on preserving as much financial flexibility as possible to renegotiate-and-extend the contract of star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. as well as fending off external interest in restricted free agent Santi Aldama.” —Marc Stein
Bradley Beal’s Trade Talks Stall Despite Phoenix Creditors’ Interest
Despite extensive speculation around Bradley Beal’s potential trade during the last NBA deadline, his no-trade clause has complicated any movement. While Phoenix may pursue another trade or buyout this offseason, Beal prefers to remain with the Suns unless accommodated with a suitable trade destination.
Beal’s contract contains two years remaining, amounting to nearly $111 million with a player option in the last season, effectively limiting trade flexibility but also illustrating his agent’s negotiation success.
“Phoenix could try to trade Beal, as it did this past season, but his no-trade clause remains. Beal would be open to the right trade that sends him the right destination, but his preference is to remain in Phoenix.” —League Source familiar with Beal’s thinking
RJ Barrett Emerges as a Possible Trade Candidate for Toronto Raptors
Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett is generating increasing trade buzz this offseason. Various league insiders, including Marc Stein and Michael Scotto, have identified Barrett as a veteran player monitored leaguewide for trade possibilities.
Barrett, under contract for the next two seasons with a total of $57.32 million owed, delivered a career-high average of 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists last season. His production combined with a team-friendly salary suggests he could command interest if the Raptors opt to trade him.
“Among the veterans currently being monitored for potential inclusion in trades this offseason: Miami’s Andrew Wiggins, Toronto’s RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, Utah’s Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson, Washington’s Marcus Smart and Milwaukee’s Pat Connaughton.” —Marc Stein
“Toronto has also continued to gauge the trade market on RJ Barrett, league sources told HoopsHype. Barrett averaged a career-high 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.” —Michael Scotto
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future with Milwaukee Bucks Remains Uncertain
Though the Milwaukee Bucks seem intent on retaining two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, speculation abounds about his commitment beyond the immediate future. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst expressed skepticism that the Bucks can assemble a contender capable of keeping Giannis on the roster.
Windhorst highlighted that multiple teams capable of bidding for stars like Kevin Durant declined involvement, while the Bucks traded their 2026 first-round pick with the expectation it could be a valuable asset given doubt about Giannis’s tenure.
NBA insider Shams Charania added nuance, noting that Giannis remains open to alternatives but has yet to request a trade. The Bucks are proceeding under the assumption he will return but acknowledge his history of withholding decisions until circumstances warrant a move.
Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs, identified as a potential suitor, have not engaged in serious negotiations for Antetokounmpo, partly due to concerns about takeover costs amid the ongoing development of their young star Victor Wembanyama.
“Can the Bucks between keeping their players and potentially trying to find a stopgap point guard, can they present Giannis with a team that can be a contender in the Eastern Conference? The league doesn’t think so.” —Brian Windhorst, ESPN
“Giannis Antetokounmpo is open-minded and considering other options outside of Milwaukee. He has not requested a trade yet, but he remains open-minded from my understanding. The Bucks, for their part, they’re fully operating like Giannis Antetokounmpo will be back.” —Shams Charania
“The Spurs haven’t held any substantive discussions regarding the former, according to sources, and Phoenix’s asking price might be too steep for a franchise looking to remain cautious.” —ESPN Sources
John Collins Opts Into Player Option, Increasing Trade Likelihood
Utah Jazz forward John Collins has exercised his $26.58 million player option for the 2025-26 season, clearing a pivotal hurdle for potential offseason movement. Collins averaged 19 points per game, shooting 52.7 percent from the field and nearly 40 percent from three-point range last season.
The Jazz appear open to trading Collins, but his market remains fluid as teams assess their draft assets and roster needs post-draft. Contract year status and productive recent performance could attract suitors, though the Los Angeles Lakers have indicated disinterest.
“Utah is open to trading Collins this offseason, sources say, but his market is apparently still forming and might not take shape until after this week’s draft proceedings.” —Marc Stein
“JUST IN: Utah Jazz forward John Collins has exercised his $26.58 million player option for the 2025-26 season.” —Michael Scotto
Rookie Ace Bailey Confirms Commitment to Utah Jazz After Initial Reservations
Ace Bailey, the fifth overall pick in the most recent NBA Draft, initially expressed reluctance about being selected by the Utah Jazz. However, he is now confirmed to report to Utah as planned, quashing earlier doubts about his commitment to the team.
Jazz representatives have maintained positive communications with Bailey and his camp, who conveyed excitement about joining Utah and participating in upcoming team events including summer league practice.
Bailey’s combination of size, athleticism, and shooting ability positions him as a promising asset, and his decision to embrace his new team is a relief for the Jazz as they look to integrate their promising rookie class.
“Ace Bailey will be coming to Utah after all. According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, Bailey plans to report to the Jazz Saturday as the team had expected all along.” —ESPN
“We’ve had good communication with Ace Bailey and his representatives. We feel good about everything. Ace and his family are coming to Utah tomorrow. We’ll have a press conference Sunday, and a practice Monday. This has always been the plan.” —Utah Jazz Representative
“He’s thrilled to be going to Utah. Obviously, it’s an honor to be selected in the Top 5 of the NBA Draft, and we think he can do a lot of great things out there.” —Andrew Witlieb, Ace Bailey’s Agent