With the NBA trade deadline looming just over two weeks away, ESPN’s Bobby Marks has provided an in-depth breakdown of the Boston Celtics’ potential moves in a recent episode of the Celtics Talk Podcast.
Despite some early trades in the league, including the Indiana Pacers acquiring Pascal Siakam and the Miami Heat landing Terry Rozier, Marks suggests that the Celtics might not make significant moves. He points out that the team boasts the best roster in the league, is relatively injury-free, and holds the best record at 34-10.
Marks notes that one reason for potential inactivity is the limited number of tradeable contracts the Celtics possess. Additionally, the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) poses challenges in matching salaries for potential deals. However, one advantage the Celtics have over other contenders is the ownership’s commitment and the team’s retention of most of its draft picks.
“People forget about Boston,” Marks emphasized. “They’re not like some of these other teams. They’re not like Milwaukee. They’re not like Phoenix. Yes, their payroll is high, but … they’re still sitting on the draft equity.”
Despite the salary limitations imposed by the new CBA, Marks suggests the Celtics might be active in pursuing players within the $6.2 million trade exception (for Grant Williams). He mentions potential targets like Naji Marshall from New Orleans or John Konchar in Memphis, both fitting into the specified salary range.
Marks also discusses the buyout market, highlighting the Celtics’ activity limitations due to CBA restrictions. Players with a pre-existing contract salary exceeding $12.4 million, such as Gordon Hayward or Kyle Lowry, would be ineligible for signing. However, players like Alec Burks could be potential options.
While Marks acknowledges the possibility of the Celtics being active in acquiring depth players before the trade deadline, he suggests that major roster changes might not be in the cards. The focus appears to be on strategic additions to complement the existing core and maintain playoff readiness.
