Report: Celtics continue to search for frontcourt help as NBA trade deadline approaches
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, more and more names continue to be linked as potential Celtics targets. A report on Monday morning seems to indicate the team is looking for a true big man to add to the roster, with a couple of options named.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, both LaMarcus Aldgridge and John Collins are on Danny Ainge’s radar. Charania also said Kings forward Harrison Barnes remains in play for the C’s as well.
“The Spurs are continuing to explore trades for Aldridge,” Charania writes, but added, “should Aldridge receive a buyout, Miami, Portland and Boston are expected to be leading suitors.” Aldridge had averaged 14 points and five rebounds a game for the Spurs this season. It was announced last week that he and the team have agreed to part ways.
Collins is described as a “player of interest for the Celtics” by Charania, who mentions the “steep price” to obtain him will likely be “a high-level first-round draft pick and/or a talented young player.” The 23-year-old is averaging 18 points and eight rebounds per game for the Hawks this season, and will be due a qualifying offer or become a restricted free agent this summer, giving the team a potential extra year of control. When it comes to Collins, the question isn’t whether or not he’s worth the price, but if Danny Ainge is willing to pay it.
Finally, Charania mentions Harrison Barnes, who he described as “a more logical and likely target for the Celtics.” This isn’t the first time a report has linked Barnes to the Celtics, as he’s in the midst of a resurgence-like year in Sacramento. However, the biggest issue with Barnes is his contract – he’s under contract through 2023, and is due $20 million next season, with $18 million the year after that.
With 10 days left until the NBA trade deadline, so expect the frequency of rumors to increase in the coming days.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
