5 potential targets for the Celtics ahead of the NBA trade deadline
Seth Curry is a veteran on a bad team who is looking to win.
The NBA trade deadline of Thursday, Feb. 6, is quickly approaching.
While the Celtics likely won’t do anything drastic to alter their core, it’s possible they’ll make a small move or two with the hopes of bolstering their bench.
Here are five players they could possibly consider, based on fit, skill set, and contract requirements.
Santi Aldama, Grizzlies forward
Santi Aldama, a 7-foot, 215-pound power forward averaging 12.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, would fit perfectly with the Celtics.
He’s shooting 49.2 percent from the floor and 36.9 percent from 3-point range. He’ll become a restricted free agent this offseason, so if the Grizzlies want to avoid paying him a sizable amount, they could make a move.
The Celtics could throw in some picks, along with one or two of their bench players, to sweeten the pot.
Seth Curry, Hornets guard
The Hornets are struggling, and having Seth Curry around doesn’t really do them much good.
Curry, 34, is a bit past his prime, but he’s still shooting 44 percent from 3-point range. For a Celtics team that cold use some more bench scoring from a proven veteran, perhaps Curry could be worth a look.
At this stage of his career, it’s likely all he cares about is a shot at winning a championship.
Javonte Green, Pelicans guard
The Pelicans have some talent on the roster but are currently amid a miserable season.
They may be willing to trade old friend Javonte Green, who has made a nice living for himself after starting his career with the Celtics. He’s averaging 6.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1 steal, and 0.7 blocks per game for New Orleans.
Green hustles, is a reliable defender, and excels in transition. He could help the Celtics play with pace and would mesh well with Payton Pritchard and Sam Hauser.
Walker Kessler, Jazz center
Walker Kessler is currently one of the biggest steals in the NBA, with the Jazz paying him just under $3 million a season.
Also a legit 7-footer, Kessler is averaging 11.3 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. He doesn’t shoot 3s, but he’s established himself as one of the league’s best rim protectors.
The Celtics may have to give Utah a sizable haul, but it may be worth if it old friend Danny Ainge obliges.
Kris Murray, Trail Blazers forward
Kris Murray, a 6-foot-8-inch, 216-pound wing in his second year, has plenty of upside.
Murray will need to improve his 3-point shot, but he is capable of stepping out and hitting from deep. He’s averaging 4.5 points and 2.4 rebounds for the Trail Blazers and would help as a defender, rebounder, and rim runner.
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