Thinking about trades for the Boston Celtics before they even finish their postseason might seem like a bit much for some fans, but for the organization and the analysts who cover it, it is never too early to try to think about the future structure of the ball club.
To such an end, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley assembled a trio of potential targets for the Celtics to consider pursuing via trade in the looming 2023 NBA offseason. Suggesting that until proven otherwise that Boston “could still be a player or two away from getting over the proverbial hump,” Buckley sees some frontcourt and wing players on other teams at present as potentially wise additions to the team’s roster.
Let’s take a look at that trio.
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Chris Boucher, Toronto Raptors
“The Celtics could probably use another big man regardless what happens with Grant Williams’ venture into restricted free agency,” and we tend to agree with Buckley that Boucher could be a wise one to pursue.
“His 7-foot-4 wingspan makes him disruptive around the rim and active on the glass. Tack on a perimeter shot that yielded 90 triples at a 38.3% clip two seasons back, and you’re talking about someone who could not only fit this frontcourt but add new dimensions to it.”
Cody Martin, Charlotte Hornets
Martin “might quietly be a two-way asset,” according to the B/R analyst, who suggests that “if his knee problems are behind him, he could help out a winner.”
“He is athletic and active, so he can hustle his way into a helpful role if nothing else is working. But he has ball skills, an ignitable shot, and a decent amount of defensive versatility.”
Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs
Per Buckley, McDermott “had a remarkably consistent nine-year career, and he shouldn’t be too expensive since he clearly doesn’t fit the timeline of the rebuilding San Antonio Spurs.”
“He has shot better than 40% from range in five of the last six seasons. The one time he didn’t, he “settled” for a 38.8% splash rate.”
Be sure to check out the full rationales for each here.
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