The Boston Celtics remain capable of pulling off a few blockbuster trades this offseason. They still have plenty of assets (young players and future picks) that can capture the interest of teams in the NBA. However, point guard Terry Rozier, may not be included in those.
During a recent podcast interview, Rozier expressed confidence in Celtics general manager and president of basketball operations, Danny Ainge. The 23-year-old from Youngstown, Ohio believes Ainge would not deal him away. There were several times in the past when it looked like he was going to be traded by the C's, but until now he is still in Boston.
Rozier joined the Celtics in 2015 when they selected him with the 16th overall pick. In two seasons in Beantown, he averaged 4.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, in 13.9 minutes per contest. Next season, he is expected to be the backup of Kyrie Irving. Joining Rozier and Irving on the point guard depth chart for Boston is the returning Shane Larkin.
Celtics' picks
Perhaps a reason why the Celtics are holding on to Rozier is that they have many future picks. Instead of giving up a blooming prospect, they could just let go of these to acquire the player they desire. SB Nation's Celtics Blog listed the picks that Boston has as of the moment. The Celtics have three first-rounders from the Los Angeles Lakers (2018), Los Angeles Clippers (2019), and the Memphis Grizzlies (2019), all are protected.
Aside from these, they have their future first-round picks. Some can either be trade assets or opportunities to add young talent.
Avery Bradley expected move
Speaking of Celtics guards and trades one key player that left Boston this offseason was Avery Bradley. The 26-year-old told Bleacher Report a couple of days ago that the trade sending him to the Detroit Pistons was unsurprising.
He understood that it is all about business.
Bradley played his entire career (seven seasons) with the Celtics. He was a major contributor to the success the franchise is experiencing now. The ex-Texas Longhorns is known for his defense and seems to be a great fit in Detroit. The Piston gave up Marcus Morris for Bradley and a 2019 second-round draft pick in July.
The first time Bradley will have a chance to suit up against his former team is on November 27. It is also going to be a homecoming for him since he is returning to the TD Garden in Boston. The Celtics are hosting the Pistons to begin their regular season series.