NBA Rumors: Ex-Celtics Veteran’s Return Could Spur Trade Involving Ex-Champion

The Boston Celtics have begun their rebuild as they start a new regime.

Kemba Walker is no longer around and has been traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. In his place, the Cs have welcomed back Al Horford to the fray.

The reunion with Horford somehow addresses a big void upfront. Tristan Thompson tried to plug in that hole, but his first-year stint with the Boston Celtics was hardly significant.

Hence, the coming of the 35-year-old center could suggest more moves ahead. Thompson is a player to watch.

Jay King of The Athletic suggested that speculations are ripe that the ex-NBA champion could be the one dealt in a trade next.

Keeping Horford and Thompson would make sense. But if one digs into the numbers game, allocating $37 million for both to play behind Robert Williams is a bit off.

Thompson is still under contract for one more year where he will earn $9.7 million. He managed only 7.6 points and 8.1 rebounds per game last season as a Celtic.

However, rumors claiming that he is one of the unliked people in the Boston locker room could factor in and instigate a move out of Bean Town, Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe reported.

Aside from Williams, there is another new young player that was part of the Walker-Horford trade.

Moses Brown is a seven-footer who could be another big man that the Celtics may develop–further shrouding the future of Thompson.

Even when he was still with the Cleveland Cavaliers, pundits questioned if the 30-year-old deserved a big contract.

His averages at that time were 9.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and an assist in the 619 games he played as a Cavalier.

His ties with LeBron James were seen as a factor behind contract negotiations. He is a silent operator, but it was hardly felt for the Celtics last season.

Some teams could use Thompson, but the exchange needs to be tempting.

There are positions to fill, particularly the backcourt. But none of this may prosper until the Celtics can name their new head coach.

So far, Ime Udoka, Davin Ham and Chauncey Billups have been interviewed for the position, ESPN reported citing sources.

Another name that could make sense is Rick Carlisle who is a former Celtic.

After stepping down as Dallas Mavericks head coach, he could be a sensible successor for Brad Stevens, who is now Boston's president of basketball operations.