Domantas Sabonis, the 3-time All-Star, is being considered by the Boston Celtics as a replacement for Giannis Antetokounmpo. On June 23, 2026, Bleacher Report's Mike Chiari listed Sabonis as a top target for the Celtics.
What happened?
The Milwaukee Bucks passed on the Celtics' offer for Giannis Antetokounmpo, opting to make a deal with the Miami Heat instead. This move has forced the Celtics to explore other options.
The Celtics now face two key questions as NBA free agency nears. They must decide what to do with Jaylen Brown, who was nearly traded for Antetokounmpo. Brown has been the subject of ongoing NBA trade rumors.
Why it matters for Domantas Sabonis
Sabonis has an impressive resume, with two consecutive All-NBA selections and three consecutive rebounding titles from 2023 to 2025. He averaged 15.8 points per game in the 2025-2026 season, his fewest since the 2018-2019 campaign.
This decrease in production could suppress his trade value, making him a more attractive option for the Celtics. Sabonis is set to earn $45.4 million next season, a significant cap hit for the Sacramento Kings.
What comes next?
The Kings are expected to explore trade offers for Sabonis, according to The Stein Line's Jake Fischer. This could lead to a bidding war for the star center, with multiple teams vying for his services.
On June 6, 2026, Fischer reported that the Kings are looking to shed significant salary this offseason. Sabonis is likely to be a key target for teams seeking a dominant big man.
The Celtics may decide to trade Jaylen Brown, which could lead to a blockbuster deal. ESPN's Brian Windhorst noted that a "bidding war" may emerge for Brown, with teams competing to land the young star.
As the NBA free agency period approaches, the Celtics will need to make a decision on Sabonis and Brown. The outcome will have significant implications for the team's future, and the fate of these two stars will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Domantas Sabonis's contract is a major factor in any potential trade. His $186 million deal has two seasons remaining, making him a significant investment for any team.
The Celtics will need to weigh the costs and benefits of acquiring Sabonis, considering his impressive resume and high price tag. As the situation unfolds, fans will be eagerly awaiting news on the future of these two NBA stars.