The NBA trade season is in full swing, and the Boston Celtics are making headlines with their recent moves. On Tuesday, the Celtics executed a notable trade, sending Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Nikola Vucevic, along with a second-round pick. This trade positions President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens to continue exploring potential moves ahead of the NBA trade deadline Thursday at 3 p.m. ET.
In the wake of the team’s victory over the Dallas Mavericks, Celtics Insider Chris Forsberg elaborated on the strategic benefits of this trade. By trading Simons, who has a salary of $27.7 million, for Vucevic, who earns $21.5 million, the Celtics trimmed approximately $6 million in salary. This maneuver allows the team to duck under the first apron of the NBA’s luxury tax, significantly enhancing their flexibility in the current market.
Forsberg explained on the Celtics Talk Podcast that by freeing up salary space, the Celtics can now pursue players who are waived and make over the mid-level exception. This opens the door for a more aggressive strategy in the buyout market, which is replete with options, particularly for veteran players who may have previously been impactful.
Historically, the buyout market has presented promising opportunities for teams; for instance, the Celtics themselves successfully added key pieces like P.J. Brown and Sam Cassell during their 2008 championship run. The potential for similar success exists this year, as Forsberg indicated that the Celtics could still trade players like Chris Boucher, who may not be part of the team’s long-term plans.
In terms of targets, Forsberg suggested that the Celtics could benefit from adding a veteran guard capable of reinforcing the backcourt alongside Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. He specifically mentioned a player comparable to Kris Dunn, who excels on defense and can serve as a secondary ball-handler. While Dunn’s role is solidified with the Los Angeles Clippers, veteran guard Mike Conley is emerging as a name to watch. Conley, who could soon be bought out or traded after a recent deal involving the Bulls, would bring invaluable playoff experience to the mix, despite being in the twilight of his career.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Celtics remain well-positioned to capitalize on further opportunities, whether through trades or navigating the buyout market, ensuring they have the depth needed for a strong playoff push. The anticipation builds for what Brad Stevens might orchestrate next, as fans eagerly await another potential move that could enhance the team’s championship aspirations.