12 Way-too-early 2024 trade deadline candidates for Celtics to monitor

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 24: Alex Caruso #6 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles against Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics during the second half at United Center on October 24, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 24: Alex Caruso #6 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles against Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics during the second half at United Center on October 24, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
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Boston Celtics
Doug McDermott (Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports)

Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs

Last season, the Boston Celtics were one of the better 3-point shooting teams in the league. However, a big part of their disappointing showing in the playoffs against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals was because of inconsistent shooting. One way the Celtics could further prepare for that possibility is by adding more shooters before the trade deadline. One option that could arise is Doug McDermott.

McDermott could add some much-needed depth at the small forward position behind Jayson Tatum. Even though he may not be a premier player at this point in his career, there’s one certainty when it comes to McDermott – and it’s the fact that he can shoot the lights out of the basketball. If nothing else, the Celtics know they’re getting a great shooter in McDermott. After that, it’s up to head coach Joe Mazzulla to find out how he’d fit in the rotation.

As another expiring contract that could end up being a semi-highly sought-after player at the NBA Trade Deadline, the Celtics shouldn’t entirely be turned off by the option of sending a couple of second-round picks (and salary) to San Antonio for McDermott. In the right situation, McDermott would make a lot of sense for a championship-contending team like the Celtics.