Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal

For the Celtics, this is a little more complicated. Plenty of factors go into their decision-making here. 

Some of them will be financial. Let’s assume that the Celtics plan on retaining Brown by offering him a supermax. Suddenly, Rose’s expiring deal and Hartenstein’s value contract mean a lot to them. 

Moreover, the Celtics will probably have to let Grant Williams walk as a Restricted Free Agent. They simply won’t be able to afford him,. Here, they’re hoping Obi Toppin can function as something of a replacement. 

Finally, this is about depth for Boston. If they’re lucky, Rose can give them a season as a solid, game-managing point guard.

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Malcolm Brogdon, New York Knicks & Boston Celtics Updates

Hartenstein is, as much as anything, Robert Williams III insurance. Still, with his solid positional defense and playmaking, he should find his way into Boston’s rotation. 

Assuming, of course, that Boston doesn’t plan on making more significant changes.