The Boston Celtics are looking to make a splash ahead of the NBA trade deadline and are reportedly interested in dealing for Detroit Pistons forward Jerami Grant.
Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported Thursday that the Celtics view Detroit’s bonafide star as one of their “top” trade targets.
Among top trade targets for the Celtics: Detroit’s Jerami Grant, sources said. Grant is having a breakout season, averaging 23.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.1 steals per game. He is a leader for the Most Improved Player of the Year award.
Grant is having a breakout season, averaging 23.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He is currently the front-runner for the Most Improved Player of the Year award.
Grant turns 27 on March 12, and it seems like he’s just starting to enter the prime of his career. He would fit decently well alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and would give the Celtics a significant playmaking option on the interior. Acquiring him would likely mean either a farewell to Kemba Walker or Marcus Smart, but it’s still uncertain what other pieces the organization would be forced to jettison.
It comes as no surprise that Boston is adamant about mending their roster. General manager Danny Ainge has been scouring the league for players that can perhaps turn their underwhelming 18-17 season around, and has mostly kept the focus on the front-court positions.
The Celtics have been rumored to be in the market for front-court help in recent weeks, closely monitoring Andre Drummond’s situation with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Per Charania, they will also make a push for Orlando Magic big man Nikola Vucevic ahead of the March 25 deadline, though acquiring the two-time All-Star will come with a hefty price.
For now, it appears that you can add Jerami Grant to the list. He would be a huge addition for the Celtics and would most definitely make them a much more serious contender in the Eastern Conference.
