Boston Celtics Remain Interested in Jazz's Kelly Olynyk as Trade Deadline Looms
ICARO Media Group
The Boston Celtics are actively exploring potential additions to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming trade deadline, and one familiar name has resurfaced as a target for head coach Brad Stevens. According to Michael Scotto of Hoopshype, the Celtics maintain their interest in Utah Jazz big man Kelly Olynyk, along with other players.
Olynyk has been on Boston's radar since last season's trade deadline when the Celtics first expressed their interest in the veteran center, as confirmed by multiple league sources. Now, as the deadline approaches once again, Boston is considering options on the trade market, with Olynyk emerging as a significant upgrade to their frontcourt.
Having excelled with the Jazz this season, Olynyk boasts impressive shooting percentages of 56 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from beyond the arc in his first 49 games of the year. Despite primarily serving as a reserve player for Utah at the age of 32, Olynyk's expiring contract valued at just over $12 million could make him an attractive target for the rebuilding Jazz.
Boston has a history with Olynyk, having drafted him with the 14th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. After four seasons with the Celtics, Olynyk joined the Miami Heat on a four-year contract in 2017.
However, acquiring Olynyk from Utah poses several challenges for Boston. In addition to satisfying the compensation demands of Jazz CEO Danny Ainge, the Celtics must also find a way to match Olynyk's salary in a potential deal. Given that they aim to avoid involving their top six players, it would require trading at least five players to make the financials work.
This complexity creates difficulties for the Jazz as well, as they would need to create roster spots to accommodate the potential trade. While they could waive players or execute separate deals to free up space, the logistics involved make the trade a daunting task.
Nevertheless, the Celtics are diligently exploring every option to strengthen their bench, particularly in anticipation of potential injuries to their top six players. While landing Olynyk presents challenges, there may be potential avenues for a deal, albeit a long shot.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Celtics will continue their thorough evaluation of the situation, weighing the possibilities of fortifying their roster with a player of Olynyk's caliber. Only time will tell whether Boston can overcome the obstacles and secure a deal that addresses their needs.