The Boston Celtics are one of the teams rumored to trade for Philadelphia 76ers big man Nerlens Noel, and rumors have it that the Cs could be looking to use Kelly Olynyk as their trade bait.
The Celtics are still considered major players in the trade market, with the team looking to further improve their lineup. But while Boston has plenty of tradable assets at their disposal, they are expected to keep their core intact unless a blockbuster deal comes up.
"If it's something that gets us to being a true championship contender faster, we're all for it. As long as it's a sustainable formula and not a one-year quick hit, sacrificing future assets," Celtics general manager Danny Ainge told CBS Local.
With that being said, the Celtics would probably entertain any deal that won't potentially cost them much of their assets, which could mean a deal involving Kelly Olynyk, who, according to A. Sherrod Blakely of CSNNE, could be readily available and draw the most interest from other teams.
Before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury last season, Olynyk was a key contributor for the Celtics, averaging 10.1 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. The 25-year-old has yet to come back from his latest setback, but his skills should entice teams looking for a stretch five.
SB Nation's Celtics Blog writer Alex Kungu explored a trade scenario that would see the Celtics moving Olynyk for Philadelphia 76ers big man Nerlens Noel.
Noel's recent comments may have reignited trade talks for the 22-year-old Kentucky product. Noel, who averaged 11.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game last season, expressed concerns about Philly's current state of having "three starting centers," which "doesn't make sense" for Noel.
Swapping Noel for another big man would still give the 76ers a crowded frontcourt, but Olynyk could serve as a stretch four for Philadelphia as detailed by Kungu in his report.
"While Okafor and Embiid work in the post, Olynyk can spot up for three. Defensively, Olynyk has proven to be a rather consistent positional defender," Kungu wrote.
On the other hand, the Celtics would be able to acquire a defensive center in Noel, someone who could offer rim protection for the Cs. Pairing him with Horford would also allow the veteran All-Star to focus on the offensive end.
The Celtics have made it clear they are targeting stars, and Noel does not certainly fit into that category. But if the 76ers would truly consider trading Noel, the Celtics should capitalize any chances for such acquisition.
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