Boston Celtics president Danny Ainge rarely pulls off in-season trades, but that could all change this year.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Celtics have an interest in Atlanta Hawks power forward John Collins, and have been linked to Sacramento Kings forward Harrison Barnes. The Celtics also have an interest in widely available San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge, Charania added.
The Celtics (20-18) currently sit in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Despite some struggles earlier this season, they are just a half game back of the Miami Heat, and 4.5 games behind the third-place Milwaukee Bucks. The NBA trade deadline is March 25.
Meanwhile, the Hawks are seeking a “high-level first-round draft pick and/or talented young player” in exchange for Collins, who will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season.
As for Barnes, the Kings are believed to be approaching “seller” mode ahead of the deadline. As Sam Amick of The Athletic noted, Barnes may be a more realistic target for the Celtics.
The same goes for Aldridge, who is sitting out as the Spurs seek a resolution.
Boston may also have interest in Cleveland Cavaliers center Andre Drummond, though would likely have to acquire him via trade. Several others are said to be ahead of the Celtics on Drummond’s list should he reach a contract buyout.
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