Boston Celtics C Robert Williams
I’m not too fond of this outcome, but it remains a possibility nonetheless. With the Pacers looking to rebuild, they are more likely intrigued by Rob-Will than Horford due to his age and contract, and with Myles Turner being better than Williams, Boston might be willing to budge. The keyword is might.
I don’t think Brad Stevens will entertain any Robert Williams trade packages the Pacers may offer, considering he just extended him this summer. Turner doesn’t move the needle for Boston any more than Williams, making the deal lateral in the present tense. Also, Williams’ contract gives Boston more financial flexibility in the future than Turner gives them. So the deal would be a loss in the future tense.
Between Turner and Horford, the Celtics would have more than enough money to match salaries in any star acquisition, but that’s strictly speaking about money. Robert Williams is a much more valuable trade asset than Turner, making any star acquisition nearly impossible without Jaylen Brown. If the Celts were to trade Rob-Will, they’d be crippling their asset pool.
I wouldn’t say I like that avenue, and I don’t think it will happen, but it’s what Indiana will push for.