The Boston Celtics are entering a crucial offseason where difficult decisions await GM Brad Stevens and the front office. Jayson Tatum's devastating injury complicates matters for the Celtics as they have to make an uncomfortable decision about what they want to do next season. Regardless, the Celtics will be a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference and have a chance to be a contender for years to come.
One big advantage the Celtics have is the fact that there aren't other dominant teams in the East. The conference is bereft of top-end talent compared to the West, giving the Celtics a chance to compete at the highest level, even with a revamped roster next season.
The Milwaukee Bucks' implosion is a big factor in that reality. Coached by former Celtics head coach Doc Rivers, the Bucks are in a tough situation with Damian Lillard's Achilles tear, resulting in the expectation that Giannis Antetokounmpo will leave in the offseason.
NBA insider Marc Stein's latest reporting, however, suggests that that might not be the case. Stein says that Rivers and Antetokounmpo have a great relationship, which might cause the two-time MVP to stay in Milwaukee.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Could Stay in Milwaukee Because of Doc Rivers
This would benefit the Celtics immensely. Even with the Greek Freak there, the Bucks aren't contenders. It would have been a much scarier thought if Antetokounmpo were to go to, say, the Cleveland Cavaliers or another potential title contender. The fact that Antetokounmpo may stay in Milwaukee prevents the creation of a superteam that could challenge the Celtics going forward.
Antetokounmpo will turn 31 next season. He is still in his prime and is a top-five player in the NBA. Even though his wasting his last prime years on an irrelevant team in Milwaukee would be disappointing for basketball fans, it would certainly increase Boston's title odds over the next few years.
Whether Doc is able to do this one last favor for the Celtics by helping keep Giannis in Milwaukee remains to be seen.