Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal
Realistically, no. This deal does not make the Celtics better in 2022-23. Expecting a Finals repeat from them is probably akin to setting yourself up for failure.
With that said, it’s hard to identify a Brown deal that would improve them. Durant is off the market. They could offer the Jazz a deal centered around Brown-for-Donovan Mitchell, but if they decline, who else is available that could keep the Celtics equally competitive?
Granted, that sounds like a reason not to trade Brown – and the Celtics won’t if they don’t have to. On the other hand, if the situation between Brown and the team has grown unhealthy, they may have no other choice.
In that event, they’re getting a nice collection of assets here. Collins may not be on Brown’s level, but he’s a fringe star who ought to start in Boston from day one. Meanwhile, Hunter will make up most of Brown’s 3-and-D skillset, even if he can’t replicate his shot-making ability
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Couple those two with a pair of first-round picks, and this might be a workable deal for the Celtics. It’s not perfect, but trades involving a disgruntled star seldom are. Perhaps the Celtics should have taken more care to keep their players out of trade rumors.