1. Boston Celtics

Boston has a championship caliber team already and year-after-year are making deep playoff runs in the Eastern Conference, but they have lost in the Eastern Conference Finals three of the last four seasons and have yet to break through and make the NBA Finals with their young core. A big reason why the Celtics cannot break through and make the Finals is because of their bench.

Last season, Boston’s bench ranked 29th in the league in total points scored per game and 28th in three-point shooting percentage. Their bench depth has been a problem for years now and their lack of production from the bench has a direct correlation as to why they have failed to reach their goals over the years. 

Their best bench player this season on the perimeter is rookie Aaron Nesmith, which is why they must pursue a trade for JJ Redick. Even if they have to give up some of their young talent and a first-round pick for the 36-year-old veteran, it is worth it because of the fact that the Celtics may have the worst bench in the NBA this season.

Starting rotations are great and the Celtics have one of the better starting fives in the entire league, but they all cannot play 48 minutes per game. Every championship team over the years has had a great bench to alleviate a lot of pressure off of the stars of the team, something the Celtics have not had for years now. 

Being able to have Redick come in off the bench and be a three-point threat for the Celtics would be huge in their efforts to finally contend for a championship. This team needs depth and bringing in a veteran leader to aid in that category is the ideal match. 

If the Celtics are to be a true championship contender this season, they need to address their bench before the trade deadline, which is why they should try and pursue a trade with the Pelicans for JJ Redick.