Celtics
The Magic gave up four first-round picks, a pick swap, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for Bane.
Although the Celtics have reportedly rebuffed trade offers for Derrick White so far, there is still some chatter about what it would take to snag him away from Boston.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, who had a stint as assistant general manager of the Nets several years ago, the package that Orlando sent in exchange for Desmond Bane would not be enough for the Celtics to deal White.
Orlando gave up Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, four first round picks, and a pick swap for Bane.
“I think it would have to be a Desmond Bane-plus type offer,” Marks said of the possibility of trading White during a recent appearance on NBC Sports Boston. “I love Derrick White. Every team needs a Derrick White. I think his salary is really good at four (years) for 118 (million).”
“I think he provides tremendous value for you. I think if you did a Jrue (Holiday) trade, you’re probably sliding him. He’s probably gonna play on the ball a little bit more.”
The Celtics are in a sticky situation as far as the luxury tax is concerned. Various NBA insiders, along with team governor Wyc Grousbeck, have said the roster is unsustainable as is.
The Celtics are around $20 million over the second apron threshold. White is due for a hefty raise as the extension he signed last summer kicks in. He made $20 million last year, and that number will jump to $28.1 million next season.
The Celtics have a number of big contracts that they could consider moving. Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jaylen Brown are all due north of $30 million next season.
Brad Stevens likely has a delicate dance between shedding salary and putting a competitive product on the floor ahead of him.
“It’s hard for me because I do think you have to have high-level players around,” Marks said. “Jayson (Tatum) is gonna return eventually, and he’s gonna return probably better than he was, that you still have to have high-level players still around him.”
White, who turns 31 next month, is several years younger than Holiday and more durable than Porzingis. He has played close to an All-Star level and thrives in clutch situations. Other teams have reportedly made big trade offers for him and Jaylen Brown. The Celtics have resisted those calls thus far.
The Celtics have White under contract at a relatively reasonable rate for the next four seasons. Trading him would require substantial assets in return. Four first-round picks might not cut it, according to Marks.
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