Loss is hard. When you suffer a loss, typically, you try to replace whatever you lost. The same holds true for NBA teams. Sometimes, they’ll inevitably lose a player. Perhaps they command a contract in free agency that the team simply can’t match.
That’s what happened to the Boston Celtics this summer. The Dallas Mavericks gave Grant Williams a contract that Boston can’t afford.
Will they try to replace him this summer? Time will tell. The Celtics could use another big wing that spaces the floor and plays versatile defense. How about Tobias Harris of the Philadelphia 76ers?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Malcolm Brogdon, F/C Al Horford, G Payton Pritchard
Boston Celtics Receive: F Tobias Harris
On the other hand, some things are irreplaceable. You might lose a ring. That’s unfortunate, but it’s not the end of the world – unless it’s your wedding ring, that is.
The Philadelphia 76ers might lose something irreplaceable this summer. James Harden has apparently requested a trade. How will the 76ers replace him?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Tobias Harris, Boston Celtics & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
They can’t. If Harden leaves, this organization is in trouble. They won’t have the means to replace his production. Could they do this deal anyway?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
We think so. Listen: Malcolm Brogdon is no Harden replacement. We’re aware of that fact. Actually, there are questions as to whether Brogdon will even be healthy enough to suit up for the bulk of the 2023-24 season.
So, this is a risk. Still, if Brogdon can stay healthy, he does make up some of Harden’s abilities. On the other hand, if the Sixers keep Harden, this deal should make them better. It makes them deeper.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Tobias Harris, Boston Celtics & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Brogdon can carry the second unit – in fact, this is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year. Meanwhile, the Sixers have struggled to find a suitable backup for Joel Embiid. At this stage in his career, that’s a perfect role for Horford. Should the Celtics part with him?
Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal
The Celtics are flipping two good players for a better one here. Harris is the best player in this deal. In fact, he’d be more than a replacement for Williams – he’d be an upgrade. Harris is more capable of creating his own shot.
Meanwhile, the Celtics should be able to weather the loss of Horford. This team just acquired Kristaps Porzingis. In all likelihood, he’ll be taking a large share of his minutes anyway.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Tobias Harris, Boston Celtics & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Losing Borgden will sting. On the other hand, Boston may be bracing to lose him anyway. If this front office is concerned about his ability to stay healthy, this deal may be a no-brainer. It may be time for the Celtics to replace him.
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