Boston Celtics Still A Player Away From Next Level
By Simon Smith
Decision Time
The Celtics find themselves at somewhat of a crossroads as the Feb. 23 trade deadline approaches. They have proven themselves to be the third best team in the Eastern Conference behind Cleveland and Toronto.
They have two All-Stars on their roster in Thomas and Horford. They are well stocked at a variety of positions.
Bradley and Crowder are great athletes on the wings. Marcus Smart and Kelly Olynyk are still developing, but are key contributors off the bench. But from a pure talent standpoint, the Celtics are still a player away from competing with the absolute elite.
As detailed earlier, this can be illustrated in their 0-8 record this season against teams with superior records.
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In terms of their trade options, there are two critical factors:
- Will they look to add to their offensive firepower?
- Do they wish to add another defensive presence to their rotation?
With Thomas leading the way from the point, an infusion of offence seems the most likely option. Considering Thomas’ greatest strength is on the offensive end, it’d make sense for the Celtics to capitalize on this end of the floor.
Further, considering the firepower that exists among the league’s leading teams, fighting fire with fire is a sensible approach.
The question is: who do they target and what do they have to give up?
The Celtics are can swap first-round draft picks in 2017 with the Brooklyn Nets and own the Nets’ 2018 first-rounder outright via the Kevin Garnett/Paul Pierce exchange from 2013.
They also own future first-round draft selections from the Los Angeles Clippers and the Memphis Grizzlies. Along with a number of up-and-coming players currently on their roster, they have plenty off assets that may appeal to the right team.