5 Unpopular trades the Celtics should explore this summer
By Tyler Watts
2. Trade Kristaps Porzingis at top dollar
The Celtics traded Marcus Smart, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, and Julian Phillips to get Kristaps Porzingis and two first-round picks. It was a shocking move by Boston, but they felt the need for a big man who could change how they play. The Unicorn has given them a post attack and has been outstanding in Beantown, but one gigantic issue remains.
Porzingis has only played in 47 of the Celtics’ first 68 games. He got in 65 games last season, which is the only time he appeared in more than 57 since 2017. KP can play a maximum of 61 this year if he suits up for the remaining 14 contests. Injuries have been an issue throughout The Unicorn’s career, and the problem is not disappearing.
Porzingis was nearly an All-Star this season. The 7’2 big man has a unique skill set as an elite shot-blocker capable of shooting 38 percent from 3-point range. He has improved the Celtics, but his value may never be higher, especially if KP has a strong showing in the playoffs. Boston could trade him at the apex of his market this summer before his two-year extension kicks in.
This would be a bold and unpopular move, but one way to cut their spending if it becomes a concern. The Celtics must pay Jrue Holiday and Derrick White if they plan on keeping their core together, which won’t be cheap.