Changes need to happen in Boston this offseason. The Celtics need new player personnel in the locker room. With the 2020 offseason just getting underway, now is the time for the Celtics to look into trading for another piece.
What the Celtics could look into for trades and in free agency, is finding bench players that can contribute and become mentors to the young core. Looking at the Miami Heat’s veteran Udonis Haslem is a perfect example. Haslem barely played in the 2019-2020 season and did not even suit up for most games in the playoffs. However, Haslem’s role was more to teach the younger players, and act as the glue. In multiple situations, Haslem would lead the timeout circle, directing his focus on what needs to be adjusted.
Trading for a veteran leader should be a priority for the Celtics. The Celtics have multiple trade pieces through the draft and through players. Although the market for such players is at what seems to be in a drought. A realistic trade for a veteran would be one that involves a first-round pick. This player does not need to play serious minutes, but come in and hone the voices of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Al Horford was among the best in the league at playing a leadership role. Trying to trade to get Horford back would mean losing a starting-caliber player in Gordon Hayward. Which is not what the Celtics need to do. Trading a first away would also be very counterproductive for a player like Horford or anyone over the age of 33.
Signing Marc Gasol
The trade or signing would have to be for a player that is nearing the end of his contract or career and will not require a ton of assets or cap space. Unfortunately for the Celtics, no player at the moment with a contract under $10 million a year is available for cheap. So to find a player, they will have to either go all-in on sending Hayward in the trade package. Instead of trading a valuable piece, it would be smart for Danny Ainge and the team to look into free agency for this type of player. Marc Gasol has been rumored to test free agency. Although some rumors have him going back to Spain so that he can focus on the national team.
Gasol would be a perfect fit in Boston. His defensive talent and experience in the NBA finals are valuable. Gasol can teach Brown and Tatum what it takes to win, and help the team on the court immediately. The 35-year-old veteran would provide great bench depth, and could serve as another vocal leader. Gasol had a down year in Toronto, averaging seven points and six rebounds. The aging center does not need to provide many statistical games, as he will be looked at as a glue guy. Adding Gasol will also teach Robert Williams and Daniel Theis on how to properly box out. Something that the two Celtic centers are inconsistent at.
Signing Jordan Clarkson
Another player that the Celtics could trade for in hopes to boost up bench play is guard, Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson averaged 15.2 points, on 45% shooting and 36% from three. Clarkson is an offensive machine. He is able to score at will, something the Celtics are not able to do for a full 48-minute game. Although Clarkson is valued at around $10-$12 million a year. The veteran guard would need to take a year or two rental on a relatively cheaper contract. This is all possible if Clarkson wants a chance to be a valuable piece to a championship team. Signing Clarkson this offseason would not only boost the bench offensively, but he will be able to come in with Marcus Smart and make a scary duo. Smart with his defensive prowess and Clarkson with his hot hand would create the best backcourt coming off the bench in recent years.
Adding Gasol or Clarkson would be very successful moves for Boston. Each player comes with their own specialty. Gasol with his leadership and defense. Clarkson with his experience and offense. The Celtics are just a bench away from being a dynasty in the NBA. And these players could help the dynasty form.
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