NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 23: Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles against Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics during Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on April 23, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images).
3 reasons why the Boston Celtics should trade for Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant of Brooklyn Nets and Jaylen Brown of Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
2. The Boston Celtics have a stronger trade package than most teams.
Relinquishing a franchise-caliber player is a tough ask for an organization that understands his value. For years, coaches throughout the league have watched KD dismantle opposing teams on the hardwood, hoping he would join forces with their roster. In his first season playing with the Nets, Durant demonstrated his ability to impact his team positively. His 26.9 points per game rose to a 29.9 average in 2021, making him the team’s scoring leader by the end of the season.
Receiving an equal trade is a must for Brooklyn’s front office when evaluating packages from interested teams. Dealing KD to a franchise without an equivalent return on investment could only place the Nets in deeper water as the regular season approaches. Luckily, the Celtics have one of the best trade packages to offer. Players like Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, and Derrick White each hold value. When packaged together, they could be the right price for Joe Tsai.
Draft picks are also an essential part of a developing trade deal. The Celtics could use several first-round draft picks to bring the Slim Reaper to Boston. Using their first-round picks in the 2025 and 2027 drafts, along with three key players, would be an equal trade for KD’s talents. If the Celtics relinquish their draft picks, they can rest confidently in their newest star to make more of an impact than two incoming rookies.
