Could the Boston Celtics have Victor Oladipo or P.J. Tucker in their sights in the wake of the four team blockbuster James Harden trade? At least one prominent analyst thinks the Celtics ought to consider kicking the tires on one of the two players.
The Celtics Wire asked exactly this question after the dust settled on the mega-deal last week, and there’s a case to be made they might. It’s a case brought up by The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor in a recent article taking stock of the league in a new set or power rankings — and one worth a second look.
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— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) January 18, 2021
“People around the league wonder what Rockets general manager Rafael Stone will do next following the Harden blockbuster,” noted O’Connor.
“As I reported last week, Victor Oladipo, an impending free agent, has eyes for Miami. Could the Heat, or another team looking to contend—such as the Nuggets or Celtics—try to acquire him? And how about P.J. Tucker?”
“Numerous teams have already inquired about the stout versatile defender, and league sources say Houston is currently demanding three second-round draft picks for the upcoming unrestricted free agent,” he added.
Could the James Harden deal open up other trade targets for Boston? https://t.co/zld8UALg0M
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) January 14, 2021
While there are a myriad directions the Celtics could go in pursuit of Banner 18, there are some solid reasons to consider these two players in a trade deadline (or sooner) deal.
And while Tucker’s age and Oladipo’s pending free agency may indeed be a legitimate concern, the counter-argument is always going to be an easy one — banners fly forever.
