Boston Celtics: An early look into the summer of 2019
By Josh Melnick
Looking into potential free agenst that could be on the move for the summer of 2019
This summer provided basketball fans quite an insane ride into the draft and free agency. From LeBron James heading out to LA, to Kawhi Leonard getting shipped to Toronto, the landscape of the NBA shifted yet again as more stars changed teams. But it’s never to early to take a look into next summer. Here I’ll take a look as to what we could see next year, where the top free agents could land and what blockbuster trades if any could happen.
Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi was recently shipped out to the Raptors. Reportedly Kawhi wants to head out to LA, but I don’t buy it. Today Amico Hoops reported that a source close to Kawhi says “he could fall in love with Toronto.” Him going to the Lakers isn’t a foregone conclusion, considering the events of Paul George. Anything could be possible. But I see Kawhi likely staying in the east.
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My predictions-TOR, PHI, LAC, LAL
Durant resigned with the Warriors for yet another 1 and 1 deal. He has proved to be an addition to the warriors that allowed them to be one of the top dynasties of the NBA. But I have a feeling this year could be his last in the Bay Area.
Predictions-NYK, GSW
There has been plentiful buzz surrounding Kyrie’s impending free agency. Most notable was the report from the Sun Times stating that Kyrie Irving and Jimmy Butler have been planning to team up somewhere in 2019. There has even been speculation that could be on the Knicks. I think Kyrie opts out, but my feeling he’ll stay with the Celtics.
Predictions-BOS, NYK, BKN
Buzz surrounding Jimmy Butler’s pending free agency has been another storyline this summer. With reports of his displeasure with the work ethic of the young players and him declining an extension from the Wolves, I don’t see Jimmy Butler returning. But could we see him with Kyrie?
Predictions-NYK, MIL, BKN
With the Hornets headed for a rebuild, it made sense Kemba was involved in trade speculation this summer. I don’t see Kemba as a Hornet for much longer, whether traded at the deadline or next summer.
Predictions-MIL, NYK, LAC
The Warriors guard has made himself part of the dynasty of the Bay Area over the past few years. But if Durant leaves, I see Klay shipping out as well.
Predictions-LAL, LAC, GSW
Boogie Cousins shocked the NBA world when he decided to take the veterans minimum to go to Golden State for 2018. This year should be his only year as a warrior though.
Predictions-DAL, MIL, NYK, BOS
DeAndre made the decision to stick with the Mavericks this summer after changing face the last time with free agency. The market for DeAndre should be competitive.
Predictions-DAL, NYK, MIL, ORL
Al has become one of the faces of the Celtics since he came on 2 years ago. Horford could opt out, but I don’t realistically see him anywhere else.
Predictions-BOS
Now apart of a rebuilding Cavaliers team, I don’t see Love sticking around after next year. Love is sure to hop on with a contender.
Predictions-MIL, PHI, BOS, LAL, HOU, IND
Middleton will be amongst the hottest commodities next summer as he is a lethal threat from long range. Celtics fans definitely know this grief. The bucks, however, will have a lot of hard decisions to make next summer. I see Middleton staying in Milwaukee but not as likely.
Predictions-NYK, BKN, PHO, LAC, MIL
As we’ve seen in the past few summers, at least one star has moved via trade. Next summer I only see one star on the move via trade and that is Anthony Davis. Now where will AD end up? The Boston Celtics.
Danny Ainge has coveted Davis for a long time, but due to the Rose rule he cannot trade for him now with Kyrie Irving on his current contract. I see Davis on the move after Kyrie would sign his Celtics extension.
Next: Celtics three best chances to win MVP
Prediction:
Celtics get-Anthony Davis
Pelicans get-Marcus Smart, Jayson Tatum, Guerschon Yabusele, 2020 First Round Pick and 2021 First Round Pick.