Proposed Trade Sends Two-Time All-Star, Rebounding Champ to Celtics

The Boston Celtics, grappling with concerns over Kristaps Porzingis’ injury susceptibility and Al Horford’s advancing age, are contemplating the acquisition of a center like Andre Drummond to alleviate their apprehensions. In a November 4 article, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz proposed a trade between the Celtics and the Chicago Bulls, with the Celtics receiving Drummond in exchange for a second-round pick.

Swartz emphasized the Celtics’ need for Drummond, citing their 17th overall ranking in offensive rebounding and the need to manage the playing time of Porziņģis and the aging Horford. Drummond’s $3.3 million salary aligns with a $6.2 million trade exception, making him a potential buy-low option. Drummond’s impressive 20.7 offensive rebound percentage, if he had enough qualifying minutes, would lead the NBA.

While Drummond’s all-star days are in the past, he has embraced a backup role in recent years. With limited options for the Celtics using the Grant Williams trade exception, Drummond emerges as a viable choice. There’s also speculation that the Bulls might waive Drummond if their season continues to decline.

Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley, on November 21, further supported the idea of acquiring Drummond, especially if the Celtics seek cost-effective interior depth. Despite limitations in perimeter play, Drummond remains a valuable rebounder and paint protector. Buckley sees Drummond as an insurance option for facing low-post bruisers in the playoffs.

"I expect the Celtics to be active in the trade market as we get closer to February, to try to see if they can beef up their bench rotation."@ShamsCharania's biggest concern for the Celtics is late game execution, what kind of player are they missing? 🤔

📺:… pic.twitter.com/QX5YTgYevq

— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) December 5, 2023

Considering that the Celtics have rested Horford on back-to-backs and Porzingis has missed games, Drummond’s acquisition could provide a solution. Even if he doesn’t replicate their specific skills, Drummond’s experience and versatility could fill in during extended absences.

NBA Insider Shams Charania reported on December 5 that the Celtics are expected to be active in the trade market as the season progresses toward the trade deadline. This aligns with the idea that the Celtics, having traded a couple of first-round picks in the past, are likely to explore options to strengthen their bench rotation.

The Celtics are currently evaluating their existing roster, and if they feel confident in its capabilities, additional acquisitions may not be deemed necessary. However, if the frontcourt rotation faces challenges leading up to the trade deadline, Drummond could serve as a valuable insurance policy.