Eric Pincus, an NBA salary cap expert at Bleacher Report, has proposed an intriguing three-team trade that could significantly reshape the rosters of the Boston Celtics, Houston Rockets, and Brooklyn Nets. This hypothetical trade would see Celtics guard Derrick White moving to the Rockets in an effort to help Boston alleviate its financial burdens and strategically reset its roster.
In this suggested framework, the Celtics would receive Reed Sheppard, a promising former No. 3 pick, Brooklyn forward Jalen Wilson, and a future first-round pick from the Rockets. The Rockets, in return, would gain White along with forward Haywood Highsmith from Brooklyn, while the Nets would acquire Fred VanVleet and a first-round pick from Houston designated for 2027.
Pincus argues that this season could serve as a “soft tank” for Boston, especially in light of injuries and salary cap constraints that have impacted their pursuit of a championship. He notes that with the Celtics currently over the luxury tax threshold by approximately $12 million, the NBA’s repeater tax imposes challenging financial penalties that can discourage teams from maintaining high payrolls unless they achieve significant postseason success.
Boston’s front office may find value in shifting its immediate goals. Pincus explains that moving White, who is currently 31, could allow the Celtics to invest in younger talent while also addressing fiscal concerns. Sheppard, at just 21 years old, has been recognized as one of the top upcoming talents, contributing an average of 10.4 points and 3.4 assists early in the season. Pincus argues that this shift will not only give Boston a cost-efficient player but also provide an opportunity to develop young talent in a less pressurized environment compared to a contending team.
In addition to acquiring Sheppard, Boston would also benefit from a reduction in its total payroll, dropping from around $200 million to approximately $184.7 million, which would save the franchise nearly $39.5 million in tax payments. If they fall below the tax line, the Celtics could also receive an estimated $12 million rebate from the league, further easing financial strains.
However, despite the financial rationale supporting this trade proposal, reports indicate that Boston remains reluctant to part with White. Industry insiders suggest that the Celtics have established a high threshold for any trade involving White, seeking a compensation package akin to what the New York Knicks offered for Mikal Bridges—five first-round picks. With a lucrative four-year, $125 million contract and a track record as one of the league’s top two-way guards, Boston is likely weighing the long-term implications of such a trade.
For the time being, the Celtics seem to be focusing on maintaining stability around stars Jaylen Brown and White as Jayson Tatum recovers from an injury. Nonetheless, if Boston’s performance falters further this season, the necessity for a strategic pivot may lead them to seriously consider Pincus’ trade proposal as a viable option for navigating their financial and competitive landscape.