Robert Williams trade for Boston Celtics to consider this summer with the Memphis Grizzlies
Yet another deal that would prioritize depth over star power, this trade would see the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies swap rotational pieces in an attempt to aid rotational diversity.
For the Celtics, this deal would net them help across the board, with Brandon Clarke being the primary piece coming back. He would take Robert Williams’ place as the backup center, but like Williams, will be coming off an injury.
While that may be a concern, Clarke doesn’t come with the same injury history that Williams possesses, and he’s also under contract for a year longer.
Luke Kennard would give the Celtics some wing depth, and while he’s not a great defender by any means, his three-point shot would replace what Boston would be losing in Malcolm Brogdon. Ziaire Williams is the real X-Factor here. Memphis has a ton of young wings on the roster, and while they may prioritize Williams, he only earned around 15 minutes per game next year. He still has the potential to develop into a quality player.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies would add Williams to an already-stacked defensive lineup and could use him as a starter next to Jaren Jackson Jr. or a backup for the reigning DPOY.
Brogdon would help them replace some of the ball-handling duties Ja Morant will leave behind for the first portion of the season, and even when he returns, Brogdon’s floor spacing will be a huge help.
Potential starting lineups
Celtics: Marcus Smart, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford
Grizzlies: Ja Morant, Malcolm Brogdon, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., Steven Adams