Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor discussed the Celtics showcasing their backup guard, Springer, in an attempt to strike a deal before next month’s deadline, per The Kevin O’Connor Show. “I’ve heard that they’re open to trading [Celtics] Jaden Springer. He’s been playing lately. I’d imagine that they’re trying to feature him to increase his value,” O’Connor said. “He’s a very good defender, hitting some 3’s for Boston, some clutch 3’s. I’d look to flip Jaden Springer for a Big. I think Day’ron Sharpe is interesting. If they package 2 1sts with Springer to the Jazz for Walker Kessler, I’d be interested in that type of trade package as well.”
Source: Clutch Points
Source: Clutch Points
More on this storyline
Boston Celtics guard Jaden Springer also received several mentions as a clear way for the extremely expensive defending champions to save money ahead of the stretch run. In a similar vein, several scouts and execs mentioned the Cleveland Cavaliers, LA Clippers and New Orleans Pelicans — all nearly $2.5 million over the luxury tax line — as teams that should be expected to make similar moves to get under the threshold. -via ESPN / January 17, 2025
Players to keep a close eye on include Kyle Kuzma, Nikola Vučević, Jonas Valančiūnas, Malcolm Brogdon, Lonzo Ball, De’Andre Hunter, Jakob Pöltl, Jaden Springer, Day’Ron Sharpe, Bruce Brown, PJ Tucker, Bones Hyland, KJ Martin, Duop Reath, Marcus Smart, Josh Okogie, Anfernee Simons, Kevin Huerter and Trey Lyles (among others). Some sources anticipate that the Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers will make moves before the deadline to reduce their salaries to fall below the NBA’s luxury-tax threshold of $170.8 million. -via Bleacher Report / December 19, 2024
The Celtics have arguably the deepest team in the league, with eight players averaging more than 22 minutes per game. The $4 million expiring contract of Jaden Springer could be used in a deal to bring in another rotational player, or the contract could be paired with draft compensation to save Boston $16 million. Boston also has one open roster spot. -via ESPN / December 18, 2024