Kris Humphries and Gerald Wallace might not be in a Celtics' uniform for too long. After being acquired in the blockbuster trade that sent both Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce to Brooklyn, Danny Ainge is expected to explore the trade market for both players once free agency begins.
The Celtics have let the dust settle after saying good bye to their head coach and two future Hall of Fame players that have been the core of the franchise for years. Next season will be the first time in 15 years that Pierce will not be wearing green. So what is the next step in the rebuilding process for Boston? The Boston Herald reports Ainge will likely try and trade away both Wallace and Humphries because of contract size.
Wallace and Humphries' salaries match those of Garnett, Pierce and Terry as far as cap space is concerned. Wallace has three years and $30 million remaining. Humphries has one year and $12 million remaining. The first round picks are excellent for Boston, but the team is not looking to hold on to those large salaries.
Wallace's play is declining. He proved to be a great asset to the Nets last season, but is not worth what he is currently earning. He averaged 7.7 points off the bench, posting 4.6 rebounds per game. His trade value is relatively low if the Celtics want something good in return. Humphries' contract is expiring so he is worth more than Wallace. While not a fan favorite, Humphries can pull out a double-double when needed.
So where does this leave the Celtics for the future. They have stockpiled on first-round draft picks. Ainge is excited about the stock in next year's draft telling the Herald there are more impact players entering in to the NBA in 2014.
The Celtics current talent on the roster will likely land them into the late lottery picks section of the draft. With Jeff Green, Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley, Brandon Bass and Jared Sullinger, they are a mid-level team at best.
Ainge certainly has his hands full this offseason. Not only will he be working trades out with Humphries and Wallace, but he is also conducting a head coaching search to replace Doc Rivers.
"I liken it to necessary surgery for that team. No one wants to do something like that," Ainge said.
