3 big-impact trades the Boston Celtics could make before the NBA trade deadline

Christian Wood

What? You thought we meant Andre Drummond?

A fine assumption but, based on the recent reports that the trade market for the All-Star center has become “stagnant”, we wouldn’t be surprised if he stayed put in Motor City for the remainder of the season. In fact, some have even suggested that, once free agency hits this summer, Drummond could consider taking a “hometown discount” to stay with the franchise.

Because of this, it could be a smart move by the Boston Celtics to inquire about the availability of, not Drummond, but the team’s backup big, Christian Wood.

Let me state that a potential big trade doesn’t necessarily need to involve a big name. It would just need to involve a big impact player, and Wood could certainly prove to be that for this C’s team.

Through 45 games, the 24 year old is averaging 10.2 points, 5.3 boards and just under a block per game on 55 percent shooting from the floor and 37 percent shooting from deep in just 17.4 minutes of action. Per 36 minutes, these numbers skyrocket to 21 points, 11 boards and 1.7 blocks per game.

And, while some may say these conversions are skewed, Wood has shown time and time again that, when given more minutes, his production has generally benefited.

Last season, while playing with the New Orleans Pelicans — albeit, for just eight games –, the center averaged 23.6 minutes per game, and performed to the tune of 16.9 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.3 blocks on 53 percent shooting from the field. This season, with Detroit, when logging 20-29 minutes, Wood has managed to average 15.1 points, seven boards and .9 blocks a game on 62 percent shooting from the floor & 43% shooting from deep.

If the Boston Celtics opted to deal for him, he would certainly bolster the team’s center rotation and would only help improve their long range game, something the team — specifically their pivot spot — needs to improve upon.