That eerie silence surrounding the Boston Celtics’ transaction wire this offseason–minus the minor blip of signing Enes Kanter to a veteran’s minimum deal–could result in an explosive tail end of free agency as teams put the final touches on their transformed rosters.
President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens did his damage before the season even ended, acquiring Al Horford in a blockbuster deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the since-released Kemba Walker. Acquiring Josh Richardson and Kris Dunn were the sort of around the fringe moves that conclude an offseason.
But this offseason has had one (supposed) top-line name get squeezed out of all the free agency dollars. And that could lead said name to Boston if the planets align.
That would be none other than Los Angeles Lakers floor general Dennis Schroder. According to Keith Smith, a Cs-Schroder union is on the table:
Here's what a source told me on the Celtics and Dennis Schroder: Both sides have interest. Boston is interested in only a short-term deal, ideally one year. Schroder is still looking for more money than the Celtics can offer and/or a longer deal.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) August 6, 2021
The two sides are far apart now, but this could go in a number of different directions. It’s likely Schroder’s price tag won’t grow too exorbitant because of the limited financial means the Cs have to acquire him, although if Stevens really wants him, things could get unpredictable.
HH is exploring all the possibilities, and dishing out the potential pros and cons: