Why This Trade Makes Sense For The Celtics
On the other side of the trade, we have to talk about why this deal makes sense for Boston. They would be giving up a lot of talent and a first-round pick to acquire a young big man who has not shown the level of play that many expected to see from him.
With the Celtics, they need some help in the front-court. The offseason addition of Tristan Thompson will help, but they also need a big who can shoot the ball and stretch the floor. Lauri Markkanen could be that guy who would fit nicely alongside Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kemba Walker, and Marcus Smart.
Markkanen has shot 35.6 percent from the three-point line in his three seasons with the Bulls. That number is not shabby for a seven-foot big man, but many believe he should be shooting a higher percentage. With that in mind, this trade could make even more sense for the Celtics.
Can you imagine a lineup featuring Tatum, Brown, Walker, Smart, and a big man who can shoot and score as well? That would be a different look for the Celtics.
Ainge may decide that this price is too steep for a guy that has not developed a ton throughout his first three NBA seasons. Or, he could view this as an opportunity to buy low on a player who could be much more valuable than he looks.
Either way, this would be an intriguing trade for the Celtics and they should absolutely consider it if it were on the table.
