Boston Celtics: 4 potential trade deadline candidates

Alec Burks

Although Danny Ainge said the Boston Celtics did not look like title contenders up to this point, maybe he meant that they were just one or two players away. Getting an above-average shooter or two may be all the Celtics need to feel like they have a chance to win the title.

Alec Burks, a 40.9 percent shooter from three this season, could be the guy Boston needs. Since late-first-round pick Immanuel Quickley has surpassed almost all expectations already, Burks has not been essential for the New York Knicks, who signed him to a one-year deal to fill a hole in the roster. He has played 25.5 minutes per game and has mostly been in for his shooting and offensive playmaking.

So, the value of the guard is not that high for New York. And the Celtics, with the TPE, probably do not have to give much up. Even just part of the TPE with a second-round pick could be enough, considering the Knicks would likely lose him to free agency at the end of the season anyway.

On the Celtics, Burks would likely fit a similar role to Semi Ojeleye (with more minutes) coming in amidst the rest of the second unit to light a spark on offense. For the Celtics who, other than Payton Pritchard, have not been able to get much scoring off the bench, Burks would be a huge addition. And for the Knicks, they will be able to get some more assets out of their one-year rental free agent.