The Boston Celtics did not have the draft or free agency run that everyone was expecting. While they acquired some key pieces and re-sign in-house talent, their wishlist of Kevin Love, Greg Monroe and DeAndre Jordan went unnoticed. Instead, the Celtics find themselves once again loaded with draft picks and tradeable assets as certain moves could still be in the works this offseason and at the mid-year trade deadline.
General manager Danny Ainge told the media earlier in the offseason that no one was safe from trades with the Celtics. The team is still working to rebuild following the departures of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo, but have yet to acquire super star talent to put the team back on the map. As a result, trades could easily still be in the works.
According to Zach Lowe of Grantland, a deal for Jared Sullinger could be the next priority for the Celtics. Sullinger has faced trade rumors in the past as he continues to deal with injuries and sub-par shooting. Sullinger is entering the final year of his contract before becoming a restricted free agent meaning he is easily moveable if Boston can find a buyer. If not, the power forward will likely try to command a big contract.
Mass Live is reporting that Evan Turner could also be a candidate to move at some point this year. Sources are reporting that the Celtics are torn when it comes to the future of Turner. Some people do not see him as a good fit for the future while others look at the solid impact he had on the team last year. Interest will be low on Turner, but if the Celtics can get a draft pick out of him they would likely take it.
Until moves are made, position battles will headline the roster. The biggest could be between Isaiah Thomas and Marcus Smart. The Celtics drafted Smart to take over for Rondo when he eventually left, but Thomas is putting up the better numbers despite coming off the bench. The Celtics also added David Lee added David Lee and Amir Johnson in free agency as both will battle to see time at the power forward spot. Avery Bradley and James Young aim to earn the starting guard spot when the season begins. With depth all around, trades are still a very real possibility in the Celtics future.
