Paul Millsap could be the other star the Boston Celtics have been looking for, with the Atlanta Hawks forward recently linked to trade talks.
The Celtics are still looking for that one All-Star caliber player they could pair with Al Horford, whom Boston signed in free agency. With Horford in their roster, the Celtics are expected to win more games this season, but may not see themselves as strong title contenders.
"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.
Plenty of proven stars have already been linked to the Celtics over the past few months, but Boston was not able to secure any of the potential deals. But one possible option the Celtics could explore is trading for Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap.
Millsap would be an ideal target for the Celtics, if they really intend to add another proven star in their lineup. Millsap, who averaged 17.1 points and 9.0 rebounds per game last season, would be a tremendous boost for the Celtics due to his ability to create shots and defend multiple positions.
Pairing Millsap and Horford would also create instant chemistry as both have played effectively together in Atlanta. Millsap playing as a stretch four would allow Horford to operate well inside the paint.
The Hawks are facing a very familiar situation with Millsap, who is likely to opt out in the final year of his three-year $60.2 million contract next summer. With Millsap set to become a free agent next summer, it would be wise for the Hawks to explore trading him instead of losing him for nothing, something Atlanta failed to anticipate when Horford played in the final year of his deal with the Hawks.
There is also a growing sense that the Hawks could really consider moving Millsap, despite giving assurance to the All-Star forward he is not getting traded. After losing Horford via free agency and trading Jeff Teague to the Pacers, the Hawks are slowly veering in rebuilding the team. And there is no better move than to trade a proven veteran for young talents and future assets.
Trading Millsap to the Celtics for Amir Johnson and Avery Bradley works on ESPN's trade machine, but the Hawks would probably want one or two of Boston's future draft picks. Bradley would boost the Hawks' backcourt defense, while suiting up as a solid backup for Dennis Schroder at the point. Johnson's expiring contract would give the Hawks cap flexibility next summer, while future draft picks should help kick start in the team's rebuild.
It is still unclear whether the Celtic would consider such deal since Millsap could turn out as a one-year rental. But if they could convince the 31-year-old forward to remain with the Celtics and play alongside Horford, it is a deal worth exploring for Boston.
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