Boston Celtics: 3 Tristan Thompson trades to help replace Kemba Walker
By Jack Simone
Boston Celtics add depth, Mavericks shore up the center position
This trade helps the Mavericks patch up their big man rotation considering the potential issues involving Kristaps Porzingis. This gives them two extra big men to work with.
Thompson and Williams would be added to a depleted center rotation that includes only Willy Cauley-Stein. Boban Marjanovic is a free agent they would have to re-sign.
Williams could be used more as a stretch four that would be able to grow with Luka Doncic. His potential on the defensive end adds to his value even more for a team like the Mavs.
Dallas ranked 21st in rebounding last season and 25th in offensive rebounding. Thompson would help them immensely in both categories.
Both Maxi Kleber and Trey Burke help fill positional needs for the C’s. Kleber adds a true stretch-four with defensive versatility, while Burke provides another ball-handling option and solid shooter to the rotation.
The most intriguing part of this deal is that both players the Celtics receive are on the books past next season. Kleber and Burke could potentially be under contract until the 2022-23 season.
Kleber will make $8.75 million next season and $9 million the year after that, though the final season is non-guaranteed. Burke is set to make $3.33 million next year and has a $3.43 million player option for the 2022-23 season.