The Boston Celtics have already been linked to Damian Lillard in recent NBA trade rumors. While the Portland Trail Blazers star is setting a hard-line stance on where he’ll play, it appears Boston is positioning itself for a different big move.
Boston recently parted ways with Grant Williams, agreeing to a sign-and-trade with the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks in July. As part of the deal, the Celtics gained cap space and added two future second-round picks.
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It’s reportedly all part of the long-term approach taken by the Celtics’ front office this summer. While Boston still intends to sign Jaylen Brown to an extension, making him one of the highest-paid NBA players, it appears there’s something even bigger being planned for the future.
According to the Boston Globe‘s Adam Himmelsbach, the Celtics have been collecting assets and future capital so they can be well-positioned to swing a blockbuster trade for a superstar.
“No, the Celtics do not have a plan to start a youth movement centered on draft picks. This capital will eventually serve as currency in a larger deal, with the Celtics well-positioned for a seismic strike, league sources said. The spree of recent activity has bred speculation that they could be staking out their big move right now, but a league source said that appears unlikely.”
Adam Himmelsbach on the Boston Celtics long-term trade plans
Lillard and Philadelphia 76ers All-Star guard James Harden have both requested trades this summer. However, Lillard only wants to play for the Miami Heat and Harden is interested in being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers.
While neither player is going to play for Boston next season, executive Brad Stevens seems to be focused on the next superstar who could demand a trade. NBA teams were monitoring reigning MVP Joel Embiid and there remains attention being paid to Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks falter in the playoffs next season.
Boston doesn’t have any immediate plans on the horizon and it’s unlikely any perennial All-Star guard or center will demand a trade in the months to come. However, Stevens and the Celtics are making moves now so they’ll be well-positioned to make a competitive offer and potentially execute a trade for a superstar in the future.
