The recent NBA trade deadline was an explosive event in the Association, with big names changing teams left and right. Amidst all the chaos, a few potential buyout targets for the Boston Celtics caught the eye of fans. Former Duke teammate of Jayson Tatum, Harry Giles, and former Detroit Pistons lottery pick, Killian Hayes, emerged as potential targets for the Celtics.
Giles has long been a rumored target for the Celtics due to his connection with Tatum. However, after acquiring Xavier Tillman from the Memphis Grizzlies, the Celtics may not be in need of another big man. Nevertheless, the boost in morale for Tatum may prompt Brad Stevens and the team to consider a depth signing like Giles.
Hayes, on the other hand, could be a valuable acquisition if he is willing to take a backseat to Payton Pritchard in the backcourt rotation. Boston has not shown interest in making significant changes at the deadline, but Hayes may be looking for a fresh start after struggling with the Pistons for several seasons.
Several former Celtics players also found new homes during the deadline. Gordon Hayward ended up with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Grant Williams joined Hayward’s former team, the Charlotte Hornets, and Evan Fournier was traded to the Pistons. Marcus Morris is now an Indiana Pacer, Kelly Olynyk returned to Canada with the Toronto Raptors, and Dennis Schroder was picked up by the Brooklyn Nets.
The trade deadline was focused on the Celtics, with the addition of Terry Rozier to the Miami Heat. The impact of these moves on the rest of the regular season and playoffs is why ESPN and TNT invest in broadcasting high-level professional basketball.
