Boston Celtics: Top 3 trade candidates before 2018 deadline

Jaylen Brown, SF

This one may seem a little out there, but it’s not as crazy as it sounds on the surface. While Jaylen Brown may be the Celtics’ No. 3 overall pick from only one year ago, it wouldn’t come as a huge surprise if the team used him as a trade chip in the near future.

Now it is worth noting that Boston isn’t exactly in the market for anymore stars at this point. With the offseason additions of Gordon Hayward and Jayson Tatum, and the presence of Isaiah Thomas, it doesn’t seem like adding another big-money superstar is really in the cards.

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If something were to go down, though, there’s a very good chance Brown would be involved.

At this moment, he’s arguably their top prospect alongside Tatum. He flashed significant upside as a rookie in 2016-17, averaging 6.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 0.4 assists per game while connecting on 45.4 percent of his field goals. Although he only saw an average of 17.2 minutes per contest, he figures to see more action at shooting guard this year with Avery Bradley gone.

Brown offers elite athleticism and exciting upside as a former top pick. If the Celtics engage in blockbuster discussions this season, there’s an excellent chance the conversation includes him. It’s not like Boston is going to part with Tatum less than a year after drafting him.

Do I expect Brown to be traded in 2017-18? Not necessarily. A door may open for him to swap jerseys if the right offer comes across Ainge’s desk, though.