NBA Rumors: Celtics Discussing Deal With Schroder, But German Guard Still Wants Dream Deal

For the first time this offseason, Dennis Schroder may have come close to joining a team for the next season. The Boston Celtics are reportedly discussing a possible deal with the German guard, but it appears there is a holdup that will raise new criticism.

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, Boston and Schroder are in talks over a potential deal. But discussions are reportedly being held up by the two sides being unable to reach an agreement on contractual demands.

Boston is only interested in signing Schroder on a short-term deal, with one year being the ideal contract length, NBA insider Keith Smith reported, citing an unnamed source. However, according to the journalist, the German player is seeking more money than what the Celtics can offer and a longer deal.

The Celtics are hesitant to enter a long-term commitment with Schroder as they try to preserve their cap space heading into next season. It appears Boston has plans to try and pursue Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards if he becomes available after the coming NBA season.

Hence, Schroder could be more of a temporary plug for the coming season. Should he perform well and fit in, there may also be a chance that Boston could change its stance and offer him a new deal – possibly something closer to the dream deal he is looking for.

The Lakers do still own the Bird Rights of Schroder, CBS Sports reported. They can opt to go over the cap and recall the 27-year-old guard.

But with the entry of new faces, led by Russell Westbrook, in the offseason, the chances of seeing Schroder back in a Lakers uniform have gone from low to none.

The Celtics, the only team so far mentioned as having an interest in Schroder, make sense. Boston has Marcus Smart and Josh Richardson right now, but both appear more comfortable playing the shooting guard position.

Schroder could ably fill the point guard spot should a deal go down. If not now, it could be his chance to prove to Boston and other teams that he deserves the pay he is commanding.

The 6-foot-3 guard is seeking a long-term deal that would net him at least $25 million annually. The Lakers offered him a four-year, $84 million extension, but Schroder reportedly felt he could get more in free agency – something that never happened.