The Boston Celtics are reportedly looking to upgrade their depth before the NBA trade deadline on February 8. That has Boston looking at a familiar face as a potential frontcourt reinforcement.
The Celtics are interested in trading for Kelly Olynyk of the Utah Jazz. Olynyk spent the four seasons of his career in Boston.
This season, in mostly a reserve role, the 6-foot-11 forward/center has played well for the Jazz. Olynyk is averaging 7.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 21.9 minutes per game. In addition, Olynyk is shooting 55% from the field, including 42% from behind the arc.
One potential stumbling block to a trade is Olynyk’s $12.2 million salary. It would be difficult for the Celtics to match that salary in a trade without trading a current rotation player. Boston’s other option would be to combine the salaries of several players on minimum contracts.