The Boston Celtics could land a big to bolster their squad and make a renewed push for the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Boston Celtics don’t look like the championship favorites they did last season. Despite being defending champions, the air of invincibility surrounding the Celtics is gone.
This season, they just lack the energy they did the year before. Teams like the Cavaliers have really upstaged the Celtics and established themselves as the favorites.
But can the Celtics get back to being the top dogs in the East? Well, if one rumored trade works out, it could put them right in the hunt.
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The Boston Celtics could target Jazz center Walker Kessler before the deadline. Celtics Wire’s Cameron Tabatabaie noted that he would be an excellent get for the Celtics.
“Landing Jazz big man Walker Kessler would be an unbelievable coup for the Celtics. Dealing the third-year center this season could benefit Utah, too.”
“Unfortunately for Ainge, the Jazz may be a little too good to secure the best lottery odds. Walker Kessler is a big part of that.”
“That’s where the Celtics come in. Boston could use Jaden Springer’s $4.0 million contract attached to draft capital to try to convince Ainge to commit further to losing and ultimately trade Walker to the Hub.”
“The Jazz will likely want multiple first-round picks in any potential Kessler trade. This would be a steep asking price, but worthwhile for the Celtics for a number of reasons.”
This massive trade could be exactly what the Celtics need to re-establish their dominance in the Eastern Conference.
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Kessler can be a massive boost to the Celtics. With Kristaps Porzingis struggling with fitness and Al Horford being both undersized and an aging veteran, he is exactly what the Celtics need.
While he can’t match Porzingis’ scoring production, he would be a strong rim protector who can finish at the rim offensively.
He currently averages 11.4 rebounds, 10.8 points, and 2.5 blocks. If he can produce at a similar level in Boston, it will be a massive boost to their championship aspirations.
And the fact that he earns just $7.8 million from now till 2026 makes him a very team-friendly option, especially given the big earners on the Celtics’ payroll.
The Celtics should definitely try to get a trade going if possible. Given their strong relationship with Jazz GM Danny Ainge, they should have a good chance to do so.
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