With the year 2023 NBA Finals The Denver Nuggets wrapped up their first NBA title in franchise history, the offseason is officially all systems heading into the upcoming season. After a stinging defeat in Game 7 to Miami HeatBoston’s historic comeback came up short and left them in an unexpected period full of questions.
What’s going to happen with Jaylen Brown’s super extension, and will he say no? Do the Celtics plan to keep restricted free agent Grant Williams, regardless of price? With a new CBA looming on the horizon, every NBA will certainly be making moves with the future financial implications in mind, and that’s especially true with the Celtics. Brian Robb from MassLiveBoston is already active, and phone lines are operational by 2023 NBA Draft On June 22:
the Celtics You may not be in the process of searching for such big names Bradley Bell He accepted the 2023 NBA Draft, but that didn’t stop Brad Stephens and the rest of Boston’s front office from seeking potential promotions. A league source told MassLive that the Celtics have been one of the most active teams in the league business talks before Thursday’s draft.
the Washington Wizards It looks like he’s finally starting to pull the trigger on his long-awaited rebuild, and with it the return of Bradley Bell’s business talks. Of course, Celtics star Jayson Tatum has a well-documented friendship with Beal that goes back to their childhood in St. Louis. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that the Celtics aren’t really into Beal, and would rather keep All-NBA star Jaylen Brown by inking him on a supermax extension this summer. Windhorst also previously stated that if Brown is voted All-NBA, he will sign an extension this offseason.
The same cannot be said for some of the other members of the Celtics, specifically in the Boston backcourt. It was recently reported by The Athletic’s Jay King that Payton Pritchard would be ideally moved this summer in a trade, as he seeks a bigger role after being buried in the depth chart behind Derrick White and Malcolm Brogdon. Rob also fanned the flames, and suggested that it might not have been Payton Pritchard who was transferred because of his younger contract:
Boston only holds the 35th overall pick but the team is looking into possible adjustments to the supporting cast around Jason Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The Celtics are particularly loaded in the backcourt with Marcus Smart, Derrick White, Malcolm Brogdon and Peyton Pritchard all under contract for next season and the team is investigating guard moves to improve other areas of the roster per source in the league. Pritchard has been open about wanting more playing time over the past season in Boston or a new home, but the Celtics may find more financial flexibility to improve other areas of the roster by moving a higher-paid guard like Smart or Brogdon.
After being acquired from the Indiana Pacers last summer, Malcolm Brogdon has been integral to the Celtics’ regular season success, earning sixth man of the year for his efforts as Boston’s second-unit starter. However, a torn forearm ligament cost Brogdon dearly in the Eastern Conference Finals, and had significantly less impact during the Celtics’ series against the Heat. While it was a disappointing playoff run for Brogdon, the former rookie of the year has proven influential in winning basketball and that may be why the Celtics are looking to move him now.
In terms of health, this was by far the healthiest and most productive season Brogdon has had under his belt in a long time, even if you include his ill-timed elimination match injury. With a $22.5 million cap through 2025 and a new CBA sure to be tough, Brogdon’s value may never be that high again. After his low purchase last season, Boston should look to move Brogdon to shore up depth at other spots on the roster while also making way for Peyton Pritchard to have a role once again. This could also give Derrick White a chance to take on a bigger role after a stellar season with the Celtics.
While it is uncertain whether Brogdon was mentioned in any conversations, The Pistons beat starter James L. Edwards III of The Athletic The same news echoed the Celtics’ activity in the trade market. Edwards reports that Boston as well as other teams have approached Detroit about center Isaiah Stewart, but they also said the Pistons are unlikely to move the rugged big man.
With only one week between the Celtics and draft night, there will surely be chatter growing louder and louder across the league.