The Boston Celtics are cruising to the best record in the NBA. They have locked up homecourt advantage, but it is a championship or bust year. The Celtics are the favorites to win it all but need players to step up to avoid heartbreak.
Boston will be over the second tax apron this summer as Jaylen Brown’s extension kicks in, but the Celtics have built their roster to last. They just locked up Jrue Holiday, so their top eight players are under contract for the 2024-25 season. They will be back in the hunt, but cannot completely abandon improving their roster.
There will be a few opportunities to make moves, despite their financial restrictions. Other events could force Boston’s hand. Brad Stevens and his front office must prepare for everything, including these trade scenarios.
5. Must trade Pritchard for a bench upgrade
Payton Pritchard wanted out of Boston (subscription required) at the 2023 trade deadline. He was not part of the nightly rotation and was limited to mop-up duty in last year's playoffs. The Celtics' roster makeover opened up the backup point guard role, and Pritchard has seized it.
He is averaging 8.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 21.9 minutes per game, which are all career-highs. Pritchard has made 45.1 percent of his field goals and 37.9 percent on his 3-point attempts, while not missing a contest.
How does the 6’1 guard hold up in the playoffs? There are always defensive concerns, but he played a consistent role in their 2022 run to the NBA Finals. If Pritchard struggles or becomes a target, the Celtics may be forced to trade him for an upgrade.
It won’t be easy as Boston would be limited to taking back the same or less money than they traded away, but the Celtics need bench depth. It could become an absolute must if a crucial big man decides to call it a career.