2 Trade deadline moves that would boost Celtics, 2 they must avoid

Trade to avoid: Overpaying for a role player

The Celtics have two first-round draft picks and a handful of seconds available to trade. They can make another move to improve their roster and should. Boston has the best record in the NBA and is among the title favorites. It is smart to be all-in, but the Celtics cannot overpay for whoever they acquire.

The franchise will be over the second tax apron next season if they plan on keeping their core six together. That will limit their roster building and put significant restraints on the moves Brad Stevens and his front office can make. Upgrading their talent will be tough. The Celtics will have to rely on minimum signings and late draft picks to add to their mix.

Boston cannot afford to let more draft capital go than necessary. If it costs one first-round draft pick to get a quality role player, pay the freight and chase the championship. Brad Stevens cannot be giving up multiple picks for a seventh or eight-man, though.

The Boston Celtics need to find the right player. Someone willing to accept their role and help in the franchise’s title chase. It won’t be easy, but the front office is doing their best to add before the final buzzer on Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. ET.