NBA Rumors: Celtics among “most active” teams entering trade deadline

Share

You didn't think Danny Ainge would just sit idly by, did you?

The Boston Celtics are one of seven teams that have been "most active" in trying to acquire help ahead of the Feb. 7 NBA trade deadline, Yahoo Sports' Keith Smith reported Friday.

Ainge said earlier this month he "(doesn't) see much out there" on the NBA trade market and likes the players the Celtics have. But Boston currently sits fifth in the Eastern Conference and is 6 1/2 games behind the top-seeded Toronto Raptors, so there's evidence that Ainge could improve the roster.

Who could the Celtics' president of basketball operations target? Smith also listed several players on expiring contracts who could be moved before the deadline.

The C's have plenty of depth on paper, but Aron Baynes' recent injury exposed a potential weak spot in the frontcourt. Boston ranks 19th in the NBA in rebound differential (-0.6), so pursuing a big man like Robin Lopez or Enes Kanter could be an option.

Ainge also could opt for a more dramatic route by moving a reserve like Terry Rozier or Jaylen Brown, who both have been inconsistent while adapting to different roles. He's made no indication either player is available for trade, but Ainge could decide a significant deal is the shakeup this team needs to realize its full potential.

Boston Celtics

Find the latest Boston Celtics news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Boston.

Celtics-Bucks recap: Tatum powers C's to thrilling win at TD Garden

Celtics-Grizzlies recap: Morant powers Memphis past C's in Smart's return

The Celtics' white whale, of course, is Anthony Davis, but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski suggested Wednesday the New Orleans Pelicans have no plans to trade the superstar big man before the deadline.

Click here to download the new MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Celtics easily on your device.

Contact Us