ESPN Insiders have put together their thoughts on potential deals in the Eastern conference. There are some interesting and juicy suggestions:
Which Eastern Conference finals contender should make a deal at the deadline?
Kevin Pelton, ESPN Insider: Boston Celtics. Third in the East, the Celtics are contenders and have plenty of draft picks to offer in exchange for another creator for a playoff run.
Finding a fit is tricky. Will Barton would be perfect if Boston were willing to buy high. Otherwise, the Celtics might have to weigh taking on a player like Lou Williams, whose long-term contract would limit their flexibility.
First off, I’m ecstatic the Celtics are considered a contender for the Eastern conference. Second, the thought of Lou Williams (and his 39% shooting) on this team is frightening. I know we need offense, but a minor deal for a gunner like Williams could shake-up the chemistry. He’s owed $14 million over the next two years.
Will Barton is an intriguing player. After 2 1/2 unproductive seasons in Portland, Barton’s found a groove (15 ppg, 38% 3 FG) ) in Denver. I don’t know why Denver would deal an up-and-coming player who’s locked down at cheap money ($3 million per) for the next 2 seasons.
3. Which likely lottery team in the East should look to sell?
Ford: The Bucks, although I would say “will” more than “should.” Jason Kidd is unhappy with his team’s performance and has the authority to make moves. In play are Michael Carter-Williams (acquired a year ago), Greg Monroe (signed in July) and Jabari Parker, who arrived via the 2014 draft and was immediately designated a franchise savior.
The Bucks are a disappointment this season but would they really consider moving 2014’s #2 pick Jabari Parker? Milwaukee is still figuring out where to play the kid (3 or 4), his 3 point shooting is non-existent (he’s 0-7 on the season!), yet everyone agrees he’s talented as hell.
I wonder if Danny Ainge would give Jason Kidd a call about Jabari Parker? Guess that depends in the scouting department likes him better than Ben Simmons, Brandon Ingram or Dragan Bender.
