7 Grant Williams replacements the Celtics could trade for right now
By Tyler Watts
The Boston Celtics shook things up this offseason after failing to win a championship, despite reaching the conference finals five times in the last seven years. They traded Marcus Smart for Kristaps Porzingis and moved on from Grant Williams. Boston dropped below the second tax apron, but there is still work to do, including signing Jaylen Brown to an extension.
Losing Smart and Williams leaves the Celtics lacking toughness and defense. The Celtics also have limited cover behind Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown on the wing. Expect them to search for a replacement before the playoffs to round out their roster.
What if they choose not to wait? Could Boston find a Williams replacement right now? Here are seven players that are available if the Celtics decide to make a move.
Grant Williams replacements Boston Celtics could trade for right now
7. Norman Powell
The Clippers nearly acquired Malcolm Brogdon in a 3-team trade that brought Kristaps Porzingis to Boston, but the current Celtics guard did not pass his medical. Jake Fischer reported the two sides again discussed a Brogdon deal after the Smart trade, and the Clippers have a handful of available wings.
LA wants to trade Marcus Morris Sr., but a Boston reunion seems unlikely given his $17.1 million salary for the 2023-24 season. If the Celtics engage in a Malcolm Brogdon deal, it would likely be for Norman Powell. The 6’3 guard would bring another scorer and shot-creator to Beantown, and it gives Boston an instant replacement for Brogdon at a cheaper price.
Could the Boston Celtics acquire Norman Powell and another capable role player in a trade with the Clippers? That gives them someone to replace Malcolm Brogdon and Grant Williams as they look to chase their 18th championship in franchise history. Powell gives the Celtics an offensive boost over Williams but makes their defense worse. Would Boston prefer that trade-off?