Boston Celtics: 2 trade packages to nab Elfrid Payton from Knicks

Why the Boston Celtics do it

Now we’re talking. This deal registers a bit more on the Richter scale in terms of potential impact, and such a move would boost the Boston Celtics up the standings…assuming Brad Stevens can get the most out of the new additions.

Payton’s role would obviously be in the second unit, but Julius Randle is playing like a starter in 2020-21. In fact, Randle is playing like an All-Star for the 11-14 Knicks–who, as of this moment, sit in the #8 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Owning a 23/11/6 stat-line with a 48/40/80 shooting slash, Randle is a potential game-changer for any franchise. The Boston Celtics can undoubtedly use his rebounding (currently ranked 20th league-wide in boards) and play-making (currently ranked 28th league-wide in dimes) as they look to separate themselves from the middle of the pack in the east.

Two future first-rounders and two 2019 draft picks is the price to pay for the potential boost that Payton and Randle could provide the Cs.

Why the New York Knicks do it

If the Knicks do fall out of their current postseason spot, getting two first-round draft picks would be the best course of action for a team that may not be able to retain both players long-term.

This would be a future-focused return for a team that may still be a year or two away from making the playoffs.