The Milwaukee Bucks likely want to do everything possible to avoid a nightmare scenario and trade superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
But if the 12-year pro decides it’s time to find a new NBA home, an Eastern Conference rival might just help him pack his bags. In any deal involving the two-time MVP would require the acquiring team to send Milwaukee a boatload of draft picks and promising young players, but NBA analyst Ryen Russillo of The Ringer argues that forward Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics has a higher trade value than the 2021 Finals MVP.
“Tatum this year, man, I think he’s incredible,” Russillo said. “The numbers may not scream it at you if you’re not paying attention, but to see what he is doing to some of these defenses and what they’re trying to do to him… this is the best Tatum has ever played.
“This is the best I’ve ever felt about Tatum. And the fact the age thing here is I think he actually should be ranked ahead of Giannis,” Russillo concluded.
The age component is a fair argument, but even if Tatum is performing better than his shooting numbers suggest, it doesn’t compare to Antetokounmpo’s 31.7 points on 60.8% shooting.
Antetokounmpo has Damian Lillard by his side, but he’s had to carry a heavier load with Khris Middleton often injured and showing considerable decline in his game.
Meanwhile, the Celtics have one of the most well-balanced lineups in the league on both sides of the floor, which allows them to win games even if Tatum has a poor shooting night.
Given Antetokounmpo’s track record of elevating imperfectly built teams, it’s safe to say he has a higher trade value than Tatum despite the three-year age gap.
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