The NBA trade deadline is just around the corner, and the Boston Celtics are far from done making waves. Could they be setting the stage for another blockbuster move? After securing Nikola Vucevic in a trade with the Chicago Bulls, the Celtics aren’t resting on their laurels. But here’s where it gets intriguing: their latest deal has unlocked a world of possibilities, and fans are buzzing with speculation.
On Tuesday, the Celtics reportedly sent Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick to the Bulls in exchange for Vucevic and another second-round pick. While this move alone is significant, it’s the financial flexibility gained that has insiders like Chris Forsberg hinting at even bigger things to come. By shedding about $6 million in salary—Simons is earning $27.7 million this season compared to Vucevic’s $21.5 million—Boston has ducked under the NBA’s luxury tax apron. And this is the part most people miss: this strategic maneuver gives them the green light to pursue players who might be waived but are earning more than the mid-level exception, around $14.5 million.
During the Celtics Talk Podcast, Forsberg broke it down: “They’re now off the first apron, which essentially unlocks one key benefit: If a player is waived who is making more than the mid-level exception, the Celtics can now make a play for that person.” Sure, these opportunities often involve minimum contracts, but the Celtics have trade exceptions up their sleeve if they want to take on more salary. Imagine them making an aggressive offer for a former All-Star who’s been unexpectedly waived—it’s not out of the question.
This brings us to the buyout market, a post-deadline goldmine where teams can scoop up players released in the wake of trades. While many of these players are aging veterans, history shows there are hidden gems. Remember 2008? The Celtics signed P.J. Brown and Sam Cassell, who became crucial depth pieces on their championship run. Could lightning strike twice?
But that’s not all. Forsberg suggests Boston might not be done dealing, with end-of-bench big man Chris Boucher emerging as a likely trade candidate. “There’s probably another shoe to drop,” Forsberg noted. With Boucher’s contract expiring, the Celtics could free up even more cap space for additional moves. Controversially, some fans argue this could be a risky strategy—what if they disrupt team chemistry? But Forsberg counters that the Celtics have the means and exceptions to navigate this carefully, even if it means creeping back toward the luxury tax apron.
So, who should the Celtics target? Forsberg advocates for a steady veteran guard to bolster their backcourt behind Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. Think Kris Dunn—a defensive-minded player who can handle the ball and provide spot minutes when needed. While Dunn is now a key piece for the Clippers post-James Harden trade, another name to watch is Mike Conley. At 38, Conley’s best days might be behind him, but his playoff experience (108 postseason games) could be invaluable.
Here’s the burning question: Are the Celtics poised to make another bold move, or will they play it safe? And if they do strike again, will it be through a trade or the buyout market? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
