Welcome to part two of our four-part Boston Celtics TPE series.
Today, we discuss the potential targets that could swiftly slide into that sweet $6.9 mil TPE, which we got in the trade that sent Juan Hernangomez to the San Antonio Spurs.
The C’s are in the midst of a storm fire that is NBA trade season. Faithful followers of the organization sit at home anxiously scrolling through social media clinging to rumors and speculation.
With the Celtics, you cannot help to go through every possible scenario of TPE madness.
As I have said before, I firmly believe any deal of significance will be made using one of the trade exceptions. These assets cannot be combined together and are on a ticking clock pending expiration.
Brad Stevens has to strike while the iron is hot and booming — it is either now before the trade deadline on February 10th or in the summer of 2022.
Failure to make use of these underrated assets would create an asterisk on his tenure as GM.
Keep in mind, I write these pieces thinking of realistic prospects, not pipedreams in a pipeline. The rules of the take here are simple: either we use part of the exception or the whole shebang.
We cannot get a player back that exceeds the $6.9 million threshold. Also, let’s give a shout-out to Juan Hernangomez here as his biggest contribution as a Celtic is undoubtedly this TPE.
I have 3 players for all you shamrock lovers: a forward who has been linked to the Celtics for some time, a defensive-minded center from good ole Toronto, and a former lottery pick from the Cavaliers.
Without further adieu, here are the top targets the Boston Celtics should pursue with Juancho’s TPE.
Boston Celtics TPE target No. 1) Justin Holiday
We have probably set the world record for the most articles in a month on Pacers swingman, Justin Holiday. Secondly, you probably are thinking he’s the wrong Holiday the Boston Celtics should want.
Both are likely undeniable truths.
I wholeheartedly disagree, though, as not only has he been endlessly linked to the C’s and would be a welcomed addition, but the 6-8 forward’s salary smoothly slides into our Hernangomez TPE, and what he would bring on the hardwood at this price range should certainly entice fans.
The Pacer would make an immediate impact with his ability to serve as a lockdown perimeter defender and solid 3-point shooting abilities.
He would bring long-range shooting to a spaceless team at times, a team that’s capable of going 4-42 any given night.
Other than Grant Williams and Josh Richardson, the C’s severely lack the outside shooting needed to compete come playoff time.
When the Jay’s get doubled, kick it out to Justin Holiday for the trey.
The former NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors has been a serviceable 3-and-D threat his whole career.
Rumor has it he would only cost a pair of second-round picks.
A TPE would be a more enticing return for the Pacers and would not impact the cap situation for the Boston Celtics.
The shamrocks are trending in the right direction as of late. Let’s add necessary shooting, depth, and another cog in our machine of defense to keep it going!
Boston Celtics TPE target No. 2) Khem Birch
I cannot speak for Boston Celtics fans, but I am infatuated with what Toronto Raptors center, Khem Birch, could bring to the team.
The 6-9 Canadian-born big man has a knack for defense and hustle plays — a component that is missing within Boston’s second unit.
This center would be a clear upgrade over Enes Freedom, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Birch has been a forgotten commodity on the Raps for a while. His minutes have declined due to competing with bigs like Chris Boucher and Precious Achiuwa.
On the Celtics, he would have a more defined role as our bench big. It was just last season where he shined as the starting five for the Raptors after being traded from the Magic, boasting career-highs of 11.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks through his initial 19 games played in Toronto.
Birch’s defensive prowess would only add to the solidified identity and culture the Celtics are building.
Adding any backup five that is a slight upgrade over the likes of Enes Freedom and Bruno Fernando is a must.
It is worth mentioning his salary comfortably cushions within the team’s $6.9 million safety net.
He has become a hidden gem with the Toronto Raptors but could be a gold mine for the Boston Celtics.
Pull the proverbial trigger Stevens, this is a power move.
Boston Celtics TPE target No. 3) Isaac Okoro
This last Boston Celtics target may be my hardest sell yet in trying to get pennies on the dollar.
I am talking about the young defensive ace, Cleveland Cavaliers wing, Isaac Okoro.
The Cavaliers are surging right now in a firm playoff spot in the Eastern Conference so you may be asking yourself why would they be tempted to shake it up?
A fair question.
That said, with the absence of Ricky Rubio and Collin Sexton, the Cavs lack enough offensive firepower to compete.
Especially on the wings, outside of Cedi Osman and this former lottery pick, they are hollow as a limbless tree.
Enter, $6.9 million dollars of TPE trading power, the Cavs could acquire a more offensive-minded wing.
Why would the Celtics be enticed on a player with obvious offensive limitations?
The answer is quite easy — at only 21-years-old, he has all the time in the world to grow.
Limitless potential to be a stud on both ends.
The former fifth overall pick can develop his outside jumper with the proper reps. You cannot teach length, which Okoro has in spades, measuring in at 6-5 with a 6-8 wingspan and an 8-4 standing reach.
A terror in the passing lanes, an irritant on the perimeter, and a decisive cutter off the ball.