Isaiah Thomas (Photo : Getty Images)
The NBA trade rumors continue and one of the biggest decisions that will dictate the first round is what the Boston Celtics will do with their no.3 pick.
The team is filled with young talent at every position and a brilliant coach that brought a "star-less" team to the NBA Playoffs. Observers are anticipating what he can do with an improved roster-preferably one with a superstar.
The Celtics managed to produce an All-Star this year in unexpected fashion. Isaiah Thomas was a 60th pick in the draft and but he somehow survived the dysfunction of Sacramento and being a third option in Phoenix. Under the tutelage of Brad Stevens, he gets a nod to the mid-season spectacle.
Still, he is not perceived as the superstar they could build the team on. Thus, when the endless possibilities of trades are discussed by experts on ESPN Insider, he is seen as an asset.
Chad Ford suggested this deal: "One deal that I would find intriguing for both sides? The No. 3 pick, Isaiah Thomas and Jonas Jerebko for Jimmy Butler."
However, Kevin Pelton reacted: "And I think the No. 3 and Thomas ($36.6 million
net value on his bargain contract) for Butler ($48 million) is a bit much."
Thomas is a ball-heavy, run and gun offensive machine who is not afraid to take on any defender. In a team full of "solid rotation players" it has often been asked about the Celtics-who would have the courage to take the last shot? Isaiah Thomas is the player that would not hesitate.
The Chicago Bulls want to play faster and facilitate the "Hoi-ball" offense that their coach Fred Hoiberg wants to implement. Thomas could thrive in that but Thomas is now a fan favorite, and trading him is a legitimate question discussed in Celtics Blog.
As Lachlan Marr of CB stated: "A blockbuster deal that trades away Thomas could help set up the Celtics for a bright future, or it could leave them regretting letting go of the little guy with so much love and passion for the game who plays like he's ten feet tall."
However, Bill Sy's counterpoint echoes the position of Danny Ainge." If there's a deal to be made that helps the Celtics in the future, Danny has to make that deal-even if it means parting with the team's current best player."
Butler is a two-way player that can defend the best wing player on the opposing team (LeBron James, Paul George). Exciting as Isaiah Thomas is, he could not bring to the table what Butler does. Also, the prospects at the no.3 spot will likely add to the logjam that Boston has.
If they can get Jimmy Butler back, IT4 and the no.3 pick won't be much of a loss for the Celtics.
