Latest Celtics Trade Rumors Point to Interest in Potential Frontcourt Talent
Boston is being linked to several noteworthy names as the NBA trade deadline approaches.
The Boston Celtics boast the NBA’s best record, but they’re rumored to be looking to add depth in a few key areas ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline. The latest buzz includes a potential reunion with Utah Jazz forward Kelly Olynyk and reported interest in Chicago Bulls center Andre Drummond and Washington Wizards guard Delon Wright, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Per Scotto: “Boston has expressed interest in a wide range of trade targets, including Kelly Olynyk, Delon Wright, Andre Drummond, and others, league sources told HoopsHype.”
As the report details, Drummond is a realistic target based on the Celtics’ interest in pairing draft compensation with minimum contract players. It also cites that both Olynyk and Wright likely would require additional assets for Boston to acquire via trade.
After Drummond endured a bit of a down season in 2022-23, he’s bounced back to take on a role as one of Chicago’s most consistent second-unit players. He averages 15.8 minutes per game with 7.7 points and 8.3 rebounds.
David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Olynyk, who spent four seasons with the Celtics to begin his career, also has been used in a rotational role, averaging 8.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists over 20.5 minutes per game. He’s shot 56% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range, both career bests, this season.
Finally, there is the potential fit of Wright, who’s struggled to find consistent minutes in 28 appearances for Washington this season. On average, he’s playing the fewest minutes per game (15.2) since his rookie season in 2015–16, while posting marks of 4.4 points, 2.8 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game.
This year’s NBA trade deadline is Thursday at 3 p.m. ET.