Boston Celtics in position to make play for Kawhi Leonard
By Kane Pitman
Is the risk worth altering the Celtics chemistry?
Under the supreme guidance of Brad Stevens, the Celtics have emerged to form one of the more formidable young cores in the NBA. They appear destined for success, in an era where super-teams are leading the way.
I came to the conclusion that Boston should indeed make a play for LeBron James in the coming weeks, and I stand by that opinion. But what about Kawhi? Should the Celtics go all out to bring in the two-way monster from San Antonio?
Only if the price is right.
For me, that price should not include Jaylen Brown or Jayson Tatum. Unlike LeBron, Kawhi brings too many question marks to the table. At this point, we don’t really have any clue as to where Leonard’s mental state is at with the game of basketball.
Perhaps he just needs a fresh start, or perhaps the mental demons of injury continue to haunt him moving forward. Couple those concerns with the fact the rumors that suggest he wants to be in L.A., and it’s clear the Celtics should avoid moving one of their two young forwards.
The perennial All-Star I would be sliding onto the trade table: Kyrie Irving.
Irving’s knees are a major concern. As outlined in depth by Boston.com, it’s been a concern for over three years now since the original incident. Let’s also remember that the Celtics are likely to be on the hook to sign Irving to a long-term, major money deal next summer. Irving is an elite talent, though volatile by nature. I don’t think anyone within the Celtics organization could categorically feel confident that Irving won’t bolt next summer.
For the Spurs, they are presented one of the rare offers they will get to acquire a bona fide current star. The earlier mentioned draft picks could also come into play, with Boston in a position to offer a first round pick or two to sweeten the deal.
The framework for an Irving/Leonard swap is solid. Both players hold significant risk versus reward while not bolstering a conference rival.
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Unlike LeBron, i’m not all in on Kawhi moving to Bean Town. But if Kyrie and a pick or two is enough to get the deal done, then sign me up yesterday.