The 2014 NBA offseason has been nothing short of frantic thus far. Within just a few short weeks we’ve seen huge moves in free agency and the majority of the big names have already signed on the dotted line.
The two biggest free agents still on the market are almost certainly Phoenix Suns’ guard Eric Bledsoe and Detroit big man Greg Monroe.
Both Bledsoe and Monroe are restricted free agents, giving their home teams the opportunity to match any offer that they may receive, however there is increasing reason to believe that one, if not both, of these young stars could be on the move before the start of the 2014-15 season. It is unlikely that either the Suns or Pistons would allow such a valuable piece to leave without at least receiving some kind of compensation so we could see a blockbuster sign-and-trade deal with one, or both players sooner rather than later.
It is no secret that Boston Celtics’ general manager Danny Ainge has done an outstanding job stockpiling assets and is in prime position to enter the trade market at any time. With a crowded backcourt, it appears that there would be little, if any, interest from the Celtics in Bledsoe, but a proven big man like Greg Monroe could tempt Ainge into picking up that phone.
Monroe found himself in a tough situation last season in Detroit. After it appeared that he and Andre Drummond would form a formidable tandem in the frontcourt long term, the Pistons invested big money in Josh Smith and tried to play the three big men in the same starting five. The lineup resulted in poor spacing and a stagnant offense, while failing to fully utilize the immense talents of the three big men.
A final record of just 29-53 in a weak Eastern Conference is a clear indication that something needs to change in Detroit and Monroe could well be the odd man out as new coach and president of basketball operations Stan Van Gundy looks to add wing depth and shooting to his squad.
So should Ainge and the Celtics pursue a deal with the Pistons in hope of luring Greg Monroe to Boston? Let’s take a look at the for and against, what it would cost and more.