5 Payton Pritchard trades that could improve Celtics title odds
By Tyler Watts
1. Celtics acquire versatile forward
The Minnesota Timberwolves rewarded Naz Reid with a new three-year $41 million contract this offseason, but it created some questions. With Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert locked in, how does Reid fit? Giving him more minutes in dual big-man lineups takes time away from Kyle Anderson and Jaden McDaniels unless the Timberwolves just plan on being massive across the board.
Minnesota could look to trade from that surplus, and they certainly have a ball-handling need behind Mike Conley. Payton Pritchard could give their offense some juice, and there will be starting opportunities if the veteran misses time.
Anderson can defend multiple positions, pass, and just do a bit of everything on the court. He could play the four or small-ball five in the playoffs as the Celtics try to increase their flexibility and versatility. Some will question his jumper, but Slo Mo has connected on 36.4 percent from 3-point range over the last three seasons combined.
Boston has to give up four players to make the math work here, but they can take back Josh Minott. It creates work for Brad Stevens and the front office to round out their roster, but it could be the difference in the playoffs.
The Boston Celtics will have to get creative to trade Payton Pritchard before the start of training camp. Can they find a deal that works? Stay tuned to find out.
