There is a new rumor that the Celtics are holding serious discussions with the Philadelphia 76ers to swap between first and third. Depending on what the Sixers are offering, the current rumor is that the Celtics aren’t asking for a contract, just draft picks. This would preclude that the Celtics would want Josh Jackson, however, if Jackson isn’t available at three, then they could have their eye on a scorer like Jayson Tatum.
Deal talks are far enough along that Fultz could be on his way to Philadelphia for a meeting Saturday, sources say. https://t.co/kR8vwZu8i2
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 16, 2017
Regardless, by making a trade where the Celtics do not acquire a contract in return, this would again allow for additional cap space to re-up Amir Johnson, especially with the trading of Zeller which would immediately open up eight million dollars in salary cap space to potentially go after Gordon Hayward in free agency.
For Phoenix, the Suns would provide them with the ability to select Markelle Fultz, allowing then for the opportunity to trade Eric Bledsoe. In this case, Phoenix could look to the very same teams that the Boston Celtics would have looked to trade Thomas to in the first scenario, potentially obtaining a first round pick or more that makes up for the loss of possibly both Heat picks.