There’s an old saying around professional sports: Father Time is undefeated. NBA players age – just like all mortal beings. Eventually, they’ll age out of the NBA. It’s just the way of the world.
With that in mind, let’s take a second to appreciate Chris Paul of the Golden State Warriors. This is one of the best point guards in NBA history. Paul has an encyclopedic knowledge of pick-and-roll coverages. He’s a basketball genius who, during his athletic prime, didn’t have a hole in his game.
Unfortunately, Paul has gotten old. It’s unclear whether he’ll be a major contributor to the Warriors this season. There are reasons to question his fit with this team – it feels like the Warriors only acquired him because they had to get off of Jordan Poole’s contract. Could they send him to the Boston Celtics later in the year?
The Trade Proposal
Boston Celtics Receive: G Chris Paul, 2026 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2027 First-Round Pick (Swap – GSW)
Golden State Warriors Receive: G Malcolm Brogdon, F/C Robert Williams III
With that said, Father Time catches up with some athletes more quickly than he catches up with others. It’s ironic that it’s catching up with Robert Williams III rather quickly. After all, he’s the Time Lord.
We shouldn’t make light of Williams III’s struggles. Unfortunately, injuries have had a major impact on his career early on. Williams III can’t stay on the floor. It’s a shame. When healthy, he’s one of the most versatile – and entertaining – big men in basketball. Everyone loves to watch Williams III play.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Boston Celtics & Golden State Warriors Updates
He just doesn’t play often enough. Is that why the Celtics traded for Kristaps Porzingis this summer? We’re not sure. Still, one thing is clear: Williams III is more expendable to the Celtics than he’s ever been before. Could they really send him to the Warriors?
Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal
Giving up on Williams III won’t be easy. It might be necessary. Williams III is constantly injured. HE could get his body right in time, but the Celtics must be tired of waiting to see whether it could happen.
Meanwhile, with the addition of Porzingis, they’ve got a less dire need for him. No, he’s not a perfect replica by any means. Porzingis is a better offensive player, whereas Williams III is much more versatile on defense. Still, in terms of their rotation, they’ve got a new combo big. On the other hand, they could use a point guard to orchestrate the offense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Boston Celtics & Golden State Warriors Updates
Paul can do that. Yes, he’s aging. He’s still capable of organizing an offense. Paul will make the right entry pass every time – that’s all this stacked Celtics team needs. Still, the opportunity to collect some draft capital for two injury-prone players should be what appeals to them most here. Should the Warriors give them that opportunity?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
The Warriors may want to hold off on this deal. If Paul is working out for them, they’d prefer to hang onto their draft capital. Meanwhile, if Brogdon or Williams III are hurt, the Warriors obviously won’t have an interest in this deal.
Let’s say they’re both healthy. Meanwhile, let’s also assume that the Warriors aren’t satisfied with their place in the standings leading up to the deadline. This deal could make them much better. Brogdon isn’t as natural of a playmaker as Paul, but at this point in his career, he’s a more effective scorer and defender.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Boston Celtics & Golden State Warriors Updates
Still, Williams III is the big prize here. His ability to guard across positions makes him a rare commodity in the NBA. If he can just stay healthy, he could help the Warriors make another title run. Hopefully, he can stave off Father Time.
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