SCIC ponders former Boston Celtics shooter as Ben Simmons trade piece
Ben Simmons is once again being linked to trade rumors, but this time, no silly Boston Celtics mock swaps involving Jaylen Brown are being floated around since the Cs not only have a definitive floor general in Marcus Smart but also have Malcolm Brogdon in the backcourt as well.
According to NBA insider Ian Begley, the Brooklyn Nets had been in ‘cursory talks’ with one Western Conference team about a deal that would return a veteran shooter, per SNY sources, with Simmons’ name being involved.
While the Cs are being thrown into the mix for the underperforming max contract former 3x All-Star, a former Boston Celtics sharpshooter who was part of one of the 2022-23 season’s trajectory-changing trades is.
Josh Richardson, currently on an expiring deal after Brad Stevens extended his contract before last season, was pondered by Sir Charles in Charge’s Michael Saenz to be a potential target for the Nets:
"“I think it’s a strong guess that the Brooklyn Nets may have Josh Richardson on their trade target list. He’s a strong 3-and-D player and is on an expiring contract after this season. The Nets could theoretically make this trade and it wouldn’t cost them much. Plus, Richardson would be a great fit next to Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant.”“Richardson would give the Nets depth and versatility in the backcourt. Who knows if the San Antonio Spurs are ready to move on from Richardson, but he’s certainly a player that many contenders will be targeting at the NBA Trade Deadline.”"
The Boston Celtics could use a player like Josh Richardson right now
Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens absolutely made the right call in swapping out Josh Richardson, Romeo Langford, a 2022 first-round draft pick, and a future pick swap to the San Antonio Spurs for Derrick White considering their NBA Finals run this past June.
That said, Richardson would be the perfect kind of player for the Cs at the moment. It’s not within league rules for them to acquire him back at the moment, needing him to be dealt to another team first, and that isn’t likely considering San Antonio’s surprising start to the season.
Even if Richardson himself isn’t available, Boston would do well to find a similar 3-and-D wing that could take over the minutes Danilo Gallinari’s ACL injury is preventing him from playing in this season.