The Boston Celtics have agreed to terms with free agency guard Dalano Banton on a two-year contract. According to reports, the second year is a team option. Although Banton adds depth to the Celtics’ backcourt, the team has reportedly approached the Portland Trail Blazers about a possible deal for Damian Lillard. This comes just two days after Lillard asked for a trade from the team.
The Celtics have signed Dalano Banton and are considering trading for Damian Lillard.
The Celtics have signed Dalano Banton.
The Toronto Raptors selected Dalano Banton in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft. Banton remained with the team until signing with the Celtics. Banton spent time with the Raptors and their G League franchise, the Raptors 905, during his stay with the organization. Banton only started three games with the Raptors in two seasons. In November 2022, the team defeated the Detroit Pistons 115-111. Banton set a career high with 27 points on 56.3% shooting in this game. In just 25 minutes, Banton also had four rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks.
Despite his Canadian origins, Banton is no stranger to
Banton, who is 6’9, has a lot of potential as a defensive specialist. Over the course of his two NBA seasons, Banton has averaged a defensive rating of 111.1. With the Celtics recently trading former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, the team will likely try to roster as many defensive-minded guys as possible. It is projected that Banton will play behind Derrick White, Malcolm Brogdon, and Payton Pritchard this season, but the 23-year-old might have a regular position with the squad next season.
Could Damian Lillard Be Joining the Celtics?
Even after signing Banton, the Celtics could be looking for another guard in the form of Damian Lillard. Lillard reportedly sought a trade from Portland, where he has resided since 2012. Despite early claims that Lillard wants to join the Miami Heat by next season, the Trail Blazers will just do what is best for them.
Marc J. Spears also reports that Celtics standout Jayson Tatum is pressing for Lillard to come to Boston.
As things stand, it’s difficult to see the Celtics outbidding other clubs for Lillard without having to give up Jaylen Brown, who is set for a supermax contract. Still, the fact that the Celtics went so far as to contact the 7-time All-Star is noteworthy. With Tatum allegedly advocating for this change, this could become a reality.
Lillard’s trade request is still active, and it can be presumed that Portland would wait until they have a trade worth making for their franchise star before making a move. In this circumstance, it’s unlikely that Lillard’s next team will be selected for quite some time.
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