Nerlens Noel (Photo : Getty Images)
The Boston Celtics have long been interested in Philadelphia 76ers Nerlens Noel, and it could be high time Danny Ainge stage a homecoming for the 22-year-old big man.
The Celtics and the 76ers could be perfect trade partners, with Boston exploring the market to further improve their roster, while Philadelphia yet to address their crowded frontcourt. While there are no indications the 76ers are finally considering to move Noel this season, many believe the former Kentucky Wildcat is the odd man out in Philly.
According to David Aldridge of NBA.com, Noel is likely to get traded, given the current situation of Philadelphia's frontcourt.
"Noel has made it clear he doesn't like the current arrangement in Philly, and Philly's GM has made it clear he knows they probably have to move one of the Sixers' bigs," Aldridge wrote.
It is also worth noting that the Celtics have long been interested in acquiring Noel, who was believed to be "very open" for a trade in the past couple of months. However, the Celtics have always been hesitant to make moves and deal the team's tradable assets, hoping to find the right piece to fit in their championship puzzle.
But in the trade scenario of Maurice Peebles of Complex Sports, swapping Avery Bradley for Noel could work for both teams.
"Avery Bradley is a fine player, the only problem is there are at least three other capable players who play guard for the Celtics. Philadelphia has the same problem, only with at least three other capable centers on the roster," Peebles wrote. "So why are we fighting this, Danny? Bring Nerlens home."
Adding Noel would address the Celtics' need of a defensive big man, allowing Al Horford to focus offensively and play his natural position at the four spot. Noel, who averaged 11.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game last season, could fit in offensively due to his athleticism and ability to finish at the rim.
On the other hand, the 76ers would receive a defensive-minded guard in Bradley, who has career averages of 11.5 points per game. Bradley gives Philadelphia a solid playmaker to help cover up some of the void left by Ben Simmons, who is likely out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury.
It is unclear whether the Celtics would be willing to let go of Bradley, but their loaded backcourt could make the 25-year-old point guard a valuable trade piece who could lure the 76ers to move on from Noel.
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