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NBA • 10 months ago

5 Players the Boston Celtics Should Consider Trading This Offseason

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5 Players the Boston Celtics Should Consider Trading This Offseason

Danny Ainge and Brad Stevens — Danny Ainge has proven that he is willing to part with veterans and fan favorites in order to improve his team. With the inability to attract prized free agents, he almost has no choice. Though the Boston Celtics are still in their rebuilding stage, they do have some players who may be attractive to other teams. Here are five players Ainge should consider trading this offseason.

Danny Ainge has proven that he is willing to part with veterans and fan favorites in order to improve his team. With the inability to attract prized free agents, he almost has no choice. Though the Boston Celtics are still in their rebuilding stage, they do have some players who may be attractive to other teams. Here are five players Ainge should consider trading this offseason.

5. Brandon Bass

5. Brandon Bass

This would likely be a sign-and-trade as Bass is an unrestricted free agent. He has been involved in trade rumors for the past two seasons, indicating he's likely not a part of their future. Plus, the Celtics have other younger options at his position. Productive as both a starter and a reserve, Bass is an athletic big with a reliable jumper and underrated defensive abilities. The window to get something of value in return for Bass is closing.

4. Gerald Wallace

4. Gerald Wallace

Wallace is just wasting away on the end of the Celtics' bench eating up salary. He was more of a mentor than a player this year. While his veteran leadership is valuable on a team as young as the Celtics, it is hardly worth the $ 10 million salary he is due next season. If there is a team willing to absorb this contract or looking for a steady veteran presence, the Celtics should jump on that opportunity.

3. Tyler Zeller

3. Tyler Zeller

Zeller was given ample playing time and really showed his abilities on the offensive end with Boston. But he doesn't protect the rim very well on defense, and this is one of the glaring weaknesses of the Celtics. With time, Zeller may be able to improve, but the Celtics may not be willing to wait. Danny Ainge will certainly look to address this need in the offseason. That reality makes Zeller expendable.

2. Evan Turner

2. Evan Turner

Turner really bounced back with the Celtics this year and proved his value. He showcased his abilities as a playmaker by recording three triple-doubles and consistently delivering clutch plays. He hit several go-ahead baskets late in games and mixed in some game winners. Though his defensive abilities are questionable, he would be a great option off of the bench for many teams. The Celtics should sell now while Turner's stock is still high.

1. Isaiah Thomas

1. Isaiah Thomas

Thomas is a dynamic scorer and one of the better sixth men in the league. He was an integral part in the Celtics' late-season surge and quickly became a fan favorite. Thomas is amongst the best in the league in fourth-quarter scoring, as his aggressive nature allows him to consistently get to the free throw line. However, if the Celtics hope to land the kind of star they need, Thomas will almost certainly need to be a part of that deal.

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Derek McVay is a writer for RantSports.

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