Celtics’ Trade Options Before 2025 NBA Deadline Explored
The Celtics are thriving this season, but trade options loom as the deadline approaches
Boston, NBA, Celtics, Trade Deadline, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown
Boston: The Celtics are off to a hot start this season, boasting a 21-6 record. Jayson Tatum is in the MVP conversation, and Jaylen Brown is shining after his Finals MVP win. Payton Pritchard is also having a standout year, making a strong case for Sixth Man of the Year. The team is even on track to set some records for 3-point shooting.
While things are looking good, there’s always room for improvement. The trade deadline is coming up on February 6, and the Celtics are in a tricky spot due to the second apron rules. These rules limit what high-spending teams can do in trades.
Chris Forsberg, our Celtics insider, recently shared insights on what these restrictions mean. For starters, the Celtics can’t combine contracts to trade for a more valuable player. So, if they want to move Jaden Springer’s $4 million deal, they can’t bundle it with another contract to chase a $6 million player.
They also can’t sign any buyout players who were making more than the midlevel exception this season. So, the options are a bit limited.
On a recent episode of the Celtics Talk Podcast, Forsberg chatted with ESPN’s Bobby Marks about potential moves. Marks suggested that the Celtics might want to look for wing depth or another frontcourt player. He mentioned that every playoff team is on the hunt for a solid wing off the bench.
Marks also pointed out a little loophole in the apron rules. The Celtics can trade for minimum players without exceeding the apron. This means they could explore options from teams that are out of the playoff race, like Utah or Detroit.
One name to watch is P.J. Tucker. While he hasn’t played this season, he could be an interesting option if the Celtics do their homework on him. Another name is Lonnie Walker IV, who the Celtics had in camp but didn’t keep. He’s currently playing well in Lithuania and has a buyout option in his contract.
With their own first-round pick and three second-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Celtics have some flexibility to make moves before the deadline. It’ll be exciting to see what they decide to do!