The Boston Celtics traded Kemba Walker earlier this summer, meaning building around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown should be the top priority.
Adding role players and shooters around them is the most likely path to do this. However, if an opportunity to trade for a star presents itself, why not take a shot at it?
Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report recently reported that Wizards star Bradley Beal is considering requesting a trade. A request of this magnitude would change the entire dynamic of the offseason.
Fischer stated that Beal has begun to reconsider his previous statement of commitment to Washington. According to a source, “the situation is now fluid.”
Beal requesting a trade would send the whole NBA into a frenzy. He would immediately become one of the most sought-after players in the league.
"“Beal’s the guy right now,” one assistant general manager said. “The one guy that could be available, that could help you win the whole thing.”"
The Wizards guard is aware that he needs to make a decision by the NBA Draft. If the rumor becomes a reality, the Boston Celtics would have one of the best chances at landing him.
Every Celtics fan knows that Beal and Tatum are best friends. They grew up in the same area of St. Louis, with Beal driving Tatum to and from practice.
They even guard each other every time the two teams face off. If there’s ever a time Tatum seems more determined than ever on defense, it’s when he’s guarding Beal.
If Beal were to request a trade, the Celtics would certainly be towards the top of his list of preferred destinations. His friendship with Tatum would force Boston to explore trade options.
Though he has not come forward with an official list of teams he wants to be traded to, sources have claimed that he would accept a trade to four teams in particular. Fischer reported that those teams are the 76ers, Warriors, Heat, and Celtics.
Some other teams on that list would certainly be able to put together more enticing trade packages for the Wizards. The Warriors could offer multiple lottery picks and the 76ers could offer Ben Simmons.
However, Washington and Beal have a good relationship. If he were to give them a list of preferred teams, they would likely honor that request.
The Celtics are sure to be on any list Beal gives the Wizards. Considering how close he is with Tatum, they might be the top choice of the Washington star.
A big three of Beal, Tatum, and Jaylen Brown would be able to rival the Brooklyn Nets. The scoring punch it would deliver would be otherwise unmatched.
The unfortunate truth, however, is that the Wizards would likely ask for Brown in return for Beal. This would force the Boston Celtics to make a very tough decision.
On the one hand, Brown is much younger than Beal, meaning he has more room to grow with Tatum. On the other, Tatum and Beal’s connection could be too good to pass up on.
If Beal were to come out and say that he only wants to play in Boston, the C’s could potentially get away with keeping Brown. A package of Marcus Smart, Robert Williams, Payton Pritchard, and every pick they own could get it done.
It will be very interesting to see how the whole situation shakes out. No matter what happens, the Boston Celtics need to keep a close eye on Bradley Beal.