Celtics Analyst Comments On Potential Trade Target

The Boston Celtics have been the most consistent force in the Eastern Conference this season.

They had a near-perfect offseason to add even more firepower to a roster that was fresh off making the NBA Finals.

Nonetheless, they lost Danilo Gallinari before he was able to even make his debut, so their need for another three-point shooter remained intact.

So, now that the Indiana Pacers have reportedly made Chris Duarte available, Celtics insider Keith Smith believes the team could pick up the phone and make another deal with them:

“Duarte is someone I’ve wondered about for Boston. His deal would fit into one of the Celtics TPEs. Fills a need on the wing and under team control for a couple more seasons after this one,” Smith tweeted. “Would you give up a protected first for him for the extra wing depth?”

Duarte is someone I've wondered about for Boston. His deal would fit into one of the Celtics TPEs. Fills a need on the wing and under team control for a couple more seasons after this one.

Would you give up a protected first for him for the extra wing depth? https://t.co/HSwDUqAfoA

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) January 13, 2023

Duarte was one of the best rookies in the league last season.

However, he’s understandably ceded a lot of touches and minutes to first-round pick Bennedict Mathurin, who’s younger, more talented, and with a higher ceiling.

Even so, Duarte would be a tailor-made fit for Joe Mazzulla’s team.

He’s an intelligent player who got better every year in college, a solid sharpshooter, and a guy who won’t try to do too much and understands his role.

Despite being just a sophomore, he’s a veteran already and on a very reasonable contract.

Throughout the season, the Oregon product has averaged 6.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game on just 16.4 minutes a night, so he’s most definitely worth the gamble.