Ahead of the NBA trade deadline tomorrow rumors are swirling. The Celtics’ strategy and trade targets at the deadline have been an intriguing story to follow. Despite having the best record in the league Brad Stevens has continuously said he will remain aggressive. Recently it was reported the Celtics are interested in three Jazz players. Danny Ainge’s connection to the Celtics makes these rumors more intriguing. Let’s dive into these rumors and how these three potential targets would fit with the Celtics.
The Boston Celtics are showing interest in Kelly Olynyk, Simone Fontecchio and Kris Dunn, per @BrianTRobb
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— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 7, 2024
NBA Rumors: Celtics Interested In Two Jazz Players
Kelly Olynyk
A Celtics reunion with Kelly Olynyk has been rumored for months. The big man spent his first four seasons with the Celtics and was a fan favorite. The Jazz are actively shopping Olynyk and he would fit seamlessly with the Celtics. Olynyk is a perfect fit with the Celtics five-out and three-point shooting playstyle. He would also provide much-needed big man depth giving the Celtics some Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford insurance. In addition to his floor spacing and scoring abilities, Olynyk is a high-level playmaker and rebounder. Ultimately Olynyk is the perfect big man to round out the Celtics rotation. Due to Olynyk’s 12 million dollar salary and solid value league acquiring him would involve parting with more rotation players than other trades would. However, the price could be worth it for Olynyk’s fit and positive impact.
Kris Dunn
Kris Dunn has had a quiet career resurgence with the Jazz. He is a great perimeter defender and high IQ playmaker. Dunn’s efficiency and decision-making earned him a spot in Utah’s rotation. The New England native and Providence College alumni would be an immediate fan favorite. Dunn would likely not be a consistent part of the Celtics rotation. However, in matchups where Payton Pritchard is too small Dunn could provide the Celtics with valuable bench minutes. Landing a bigger bench point guard has been discussed for that reason and Dunn would be perfect in that role.
With a 2.5 million dollar salary and not a lot of trade rumors Dunn could be available for a bargain price. One interesting scenario is if the Celtics land both Dunn and Fontecchio using their 6 million dollar trade expectation. Landing both players would perfectly round out the Celtics roster and give them two intriguing bench players.
