One NBA writer believes the Boston Celtics should go after Washington Wizards power forward Kristaps Porzingis this offseason.
Gio Rivera of NESN thinks Porzingis would be a “huge” upgrade over veteran forward Al Horford.
“No, he’s not the same must-watch “unicorn” talent he once was in a New York Knicks jersey, but that isn’t what the Celtics would need,” Rivera wrote. “Porzingis is still an elite-level front-court threat with the ability to protect the glass and score, leading the Wizards in both points (23.2) and rebounds (8.4). Obviously, there’s the salary factor in place that won’t complicate this hypothetical trade target, but the 27-year-old would be a huge upgrade from the cement-footed Al Horford, who is far beyond his prime and got exposed for his age all throughout the playoffs.”
Porzingis, 27, averaged 23.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists for the Wizards in 2022-23. He shot 49.8% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc and 85.1% from the free-throw line. Porzingis is expected to decline his player option for next season worth $36 million and enter unrestricted free agency this offseason.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kristaps Porzingis, Washington Wizards & Boston Celtics Updates
The Celtics and Wizards could do a sign-and-trade deal involving Porzingis, who has career averages of 19.6 points and 7.9 rebounds with the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks and Wizards. It will be fascinating to see what Washington’s approach is this offseason under new president Michael Winger.
Many rival executives The Athletic’s Josh Robbins has polled informally over the last two weeks expect Winger to undertake a full rebuild, if not this offseason, then within the next year.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kristaps Porzingis, Washington Wizards & Boston Celtics Updates
Boston lost to the Miami Heat in the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals in seven games after reaching the NBA Finals last season. A Big 3 of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Porzingis could potentially do some damage in the East next season.
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