Title: Boston Celtics Make Bold Move, Acquire Kristaps Porzingis in Three-Way Trade
Date: June 22, 2023
In a surprising move, the Boston Celtics have traded away Marcus Smart in a three-way trade that brings Kristaps Porzingis to Boston. While many fans may initially feel that the team has lost its heart, there is more to this trade than meets the eye.
The trade details are as follows: The Celtics receive Porzingis, a first-round pick in 2023, and a first-round pick in 2024 (top 4 protected via Golden State). The Washington Wizards acquire Tyus Jones, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, and a second-round pick in 2023 (number 35).
Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies retain Smart, recognizing his value as a veteran player with playoff experience who can elevate the team’s performance. This move makes sense for the Grizzlies, especially considering the need for change with Ja Morant.
Although Smart is beloved by Boston fans, Porzingis brings a new dynamic to the team. The Latvian international had a phenomenal season in 2022-23, achieving career highs in points (23.2), field goal percentage (49.8), and assists (2.7) per game. While his assist numbers may be lower than expected for a team that emphasizes ball-sharing, Porzingis offers much more to the Celtics.
Porzingis is one of only three players to record 100 3-pointers and 100 blocks in a single season, alongside Defensive Player of the Year candidates Brook Lopez and Jaren Jackson Jr. His ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a valuable addition to the team.
Furthermore, Porzingis excels in pick-and-pop plays, an area where the Celtics ranked third last season. He was involved in 484 pick-and-pop plays with the Wizards, resulting in 348 successful interventions, the second-highest in the NBA behind Nikola Vucevic. His direct action off these plays averaged 1.20 points, placing him in the top five out of 74 players who made similar moves.
While Smart’s departure may sting, it is worth noting that he is approaching 30 years old, and Derrick White performed well in the past playoffs. Analysts suggest that Celtics coach Brad Stevens made a logical move by trading a player with market value for a 27-year-old in the prime of his career.
Porzingis also provides depth in the paint, offering insurance for the injury-prone Robert Williams III. Additionally, he can support Al Horford, who, at 37, needs quality minutes over quantity. However, the Celtics still need to address the point guard position, and it may be time for Payton Pritchard to step up.
In terms of future assets, Boston gains the 25th pick in this year’s draft and a future first-round pick from the Golden State Warriors. The potential challenge lies in resolving Porzingis’ potential two-year, $77 million renewal six months after the trade.
Despite the mixed emotions surrounding Smart’s departure, the Celtics are determined to win now and end their title drought. Only time will tell if this trade was a wise move, but from this perspective, it appears to be a bold and calculated decision. Sometimes, to achieve great things, one must make great moves.
Boston fans may miss Smart dearly, but the team’s focus is on the future. The Celtics are ready to embark on a new chapter with Porzingis, hoping to bring a championship back to Boston.
How does the acquisition of Porzingis and the additional draft assets improve the Celtics’ long-term outlook and provide them with options for the future
And Rudy Gobert. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and protect the rim with his shot-blocking make him a valuable addition to the Celtics’ frontcourt.
With the acquisition of Porzingis, the Celtics now have a formidable duo in the frontcourt alongside Jayson Tatum. Porzingis’ presence will allow Tatum more space to operate and create, while also providing a reliable scoring option of his own. This combination could potentially elevate the Celtics’ offense to new heights.
Furthermore, the additional first-round picks gained in the trade give the Celtics valuable assets for future moves. Whether it be using them to draft promising young talents or packaging them in a potential blockbuster trade, these picks give Boston flexibility and options moving forward.
While the loss of Marcus Smart may sting for some Celtics fans, it is important to remember that trades are made to improve the team in the long run. By acquiring Porzingis and additional draft assets, the Celtics have made a bold move that has the potential to pay off handsomely.
Only time will tell whether this trade proves to be a success for the Boston Celtics. However, one thing is for certain – they have made a move that shows their commitment to building a championship-caliber team.
