As previously discussed, ESPN recently asked its NBA analysts for a summer forecast for the 2026-27 season. That included who they think will be next to request a trade.
Among the options they were given, Kevin Durant featured prominently. However, despite past attempts to bring him to Boston, the Celtics should steer clear.
Zion Williamson was tied with Durant for the third-most points. Those who received the most votes were Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.
Regarding the New Orleans Pelicans star, even if he demands a trade or his franchise finally decides to move on, his next professional home shouldn't be Boston.
The Celtics should not roll the dice on Zion Williamson
In his seven years in the Association, the former No. 1 overall draft pick has only played in 276 of a potential 554 games. That includes missing the entire 2021-22 season due to a foot injury.
The two-time All-Star has battled concerns and questions about his durability, weight, and commitment throughout his career. No one is denying how good a player he is or what it could look like if he went from New Orleans to a major market.
However, with Jayson Tatum turning 29 in March, Boston can't roll the dice on those risks. The Celtics need to be more confident in who they're getting at this juncture in their star forward's prime.
The Celtics can get a more reliable star than Zion Williamson
Boston is as well positioned as any NBA franchise to take a major swing. There are plenty of reasons to be bullish on what the 2026-27 campaign might hold for the C's. However, doing so may be required to capture Banner 19.
If there's a star worth making an aggressive offer for, Brad Stevens shouldn't and likely won't hesitate. He can put together a package that includes attractive young talent. That includes burgeoning wings Hugo Gonzalez, Baylor Scheierman, and Jordan Walsh. Maybe there's even a player who the Celtics would be willing to offer someone like Payton Pritchard or Neemias Queta to acquire.
What's far more certain is that the cost would include draft capital. As controversial as it was, the trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers netted his now-former franchise a pair of first-round picks. Both have intriguing value. The chance for Boston to land a high selection in 2028, via the Los Angeles Clippers, is especially intriguing.
The Celtics also have Paul George's contract, which can help facilitate a deal for a sizable salary. The organization has the pieces to trade for a game-changing talent who is worth paying a premium for. As tantalizing a talent as he is, Williamson doesn't fit that description.
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