The Celtics once again find themselves in trade rumors across the NBA. The always aggressive Celtics GM, Danny Ainge, has made it clear that Boston is targeting a big man to make up for the Celtic’s lack of prowess in the paint. The Celtics have a lot of young talent, a newly tradable Tristan Thompson, and the biggest player exception in history. So, the question remains: Who is the big man for Boston?
Andre Drummond
The first and most obvious option is the Cleveland Cavaliers Andre Drummond. Drummond has been fantastic for the Cavaliers this season. He is currently averaging 17.9 points and 13.8 rebounds per game, which is second in the league. Drummond has three games this season with over 20 rebounds. However, the Celtics often look for big men who can shoot the three and play solid defense against eastern conference stars like Embiid and Antetokounmpo. Drummond does have a distinct lack of a three point shot, and he is not the most prolific defender. On top of that, Drummond also has a very large contract that may be hard to move. However, Ainge and the Celtics may be willing to overlook that due to Drummond’s scoring prowess and his rebounding ability.
Myles Turner
A more defensive choice may be the Indiana Pacers Myles Turner. While Turner is not the scorer or rebounder that Drummond is, he is an excellent defender. Turner is leading the league in blocks-per-game with 3.5. Turner is also a capable three-point shooter, which would allow him to spread the floor and not clog up the lane. In addition to his enticing defensive ability, he has a much more movable contract. Turner is currently under a three-year $18 million contract with the Pacers. The Celtic’s would likely have to trade less assets for Turner than they would Drummond.
Nikola Vucevic
Another solid option for the Celtic’s is the Orlando Magic’s Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic is currently having a good season for the Magic, averaging 23.3 points and 11.5 rebounds per game, but the Magic are clearly about to enter a massive rebuild. The most intriguing aspect of Vucevic’s game is his stellar three-point shooting. He is currently shooting 41.7% from three, which would allow him to spread the floor and score consistently from the outside while still providing that defensive presence that the Celtics need. Vucevic is not a great defender, but with some improvements on the defensive end, he could be the big man for Boston. What makes this trade even more enticing is what else Boston could get from the Magic. With Orlando in a rebuilding stage, the Celtics may be able to get more bang for their buck in this trade. Players like Aaron Gordon or Terrance Ross are definitely potential pieces that could find their way to Boston.
No matter who ends up in Boston, it will be no surprise when the Celtics make headlines on the trade market. With an aggressive GM and a lot of young talent, the Celtics have put themselves in prime position to get a third star. Many have said that Boston seems to be just one piece away from a championship run. Could that piece be headed to Boston soon? Only time will tell.
For more NBA coverage, click here.
