Possible target players for the Boston Celtics for the 2026/2027 NBA season, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, LeBron James, John Collins, Jaxson Hayes, Coby White.

progresifjaya.co.id, JAKARTA – Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is a topic of discussion in the NBA transfer market, with his potential transfer to 2026 and beyond uncertain. A former MVP, the 6-foot-10 Greek-born player is the biggest name likely to move if the Milwaukee Bucks don’t meet his expectations.

According to inside NBA sources, the Boston Celtics appear interested in Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, if they back out or fail to acquire the superstar, who else is available on the free market who could help them return to playoff contention?

Here are 5 players the Boston Celtics could target besides Giannis Antetokounmpo this season.

Kawhi Leonard

According to sources from NBA reporter Michael Scotto, Kawhi Leonard could be a name to watch in the transfer market this season.  If that happens, he would easily be the next best player available on the market this offseason after Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Kahwi Leonard would be a perfect fit for the Boston Celtics, given his versatility and defensive abilities. He’s a veteran with championship experience, who can score but doesn’t hog the ball. And he’s a scorer from three levels.

No one knows for sure what the Boston Celtics would have to give to acquire Kahwi Leonard. But it might be worth at least exploring the possibility of contacting the LA Clippers to check on his availability and price.

LeBron James

When it comes to unrestricted free agents, LeBron James is the biggest and best name hitting the market.

Even in his 40s, LeBron James is still scoring over 20 points per game. And last season, he proved that he’s not only willing to accept a second-string role, but that he thrives in it.

LeBron James would have plenty of suitors if he chose to leave the LA Lakers. If he does, he would certainly be a good fit for the Boston Celtics.  LeBron James has the ideal frame to play forward. And he also has the intelligence to play point guard.

Realistically, the Boston Celtics could build a starting five with Derrick White and Jaylen Brown at guard, with LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, and Neemias Queta at forward, and let James control the offensive game. With LeBron James as the playmaker, it would help address the Boston Celtics’ sometimes overly isolationist play.

LeBron James may be considered an underdog on the Boston Celtics’ offseason wish list. But if he’s looking for one last chance to win a championship before retirement, the Boston Celtics might be a good fit for both parties.

John Collins

John Collins didn’t have the best season of his career in 2025-26. But if the Boston Celtics are looking to add depth at the forward position, he would certainly be a good option.

At 28 years old, he averages 13 points and five rebounds per game, shooting above 55 percent from the field and above 40 percent from 3-point range. With a larger role with the Utah Jazz in the 2024-25 season, he could average over 19 points per game, proving himself to be a more than capable offensive threat.

John Collins will likely command a larger contract than the Boston Celtics are willing to offer, depending on their approach to the luxury tax. However, his playing style seems to be a perfect fit for Jayson Tatum.

Jaxson Hayes

Jaxson Hayes still has a lot of room to develop as a center. However, with a relatively low salary cap, the Boston Celtics can bolster their center depth.

Jaxson Hayes averaged 7.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per game last season while playing around 18 minutes per game.  Given Neemias Queta’s struggles to stay on the court during the playoffs, a player like Jaxson Hayes behind him wouldn’t be the worst thing for the Boston Celtics. Jaxson Hayes only averaged 1.9 fouls per game last year, compared to 2.8 per game for Neemias Queta (and 4.1 per game in the playoffs).

Coby White

The Boston Celtics don’t really need help at guard. However, if they’re looking to upgrade that position, Coby White is a free agent who just finished a season averaging over 17 points per game. His three-point shooting is relatively average, with a career 36 percent shooting percentage. However, he’s also capable of scoring points in other ways.

If Payton Pritchard or Derrick White end up being involved in a trade scenario this offseason, Coby White could fill their offensive shoes.

Writer/Editor: Bembo