The Boston Celtics have emerged as a possible destination for Buddy Hield. To make this happen, the Celtics would likely need to deal Malcolm Brodgon and a few draft picks to the Indiana Pacers. There are reports circulating that Brogdon is upset with the Celtics organization, which puts his name in the trade rumor mill. Also, a hypothetical swap involving Brodgon and Hield would satisfy salary matching rules.
Last season, Hield averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 31 minutes per game. The 30-year-old finished as the NBA’s runner-up in total three-pointers made, with a total of 288. Though Hield is considered a top three-pointer shooter in the NBA, Boston’s best option is to retain Brogdon.
The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists over 26 minutes per game last season. With a potential starting lineup of Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Robert Williams III, Boston should prioritize building a strong second unit. Although Brodgon had a disappointing performance during the Eastern Conference Finals while nursing an injury, it’s essential to assess his overall performance, which earned him the Sixth Man of the Year award. The recent departure of Marcus Smart leaves a need for floor generals, which Brodgon would fulfill if he remains put. Hield, who averaged 2.8 assists, lacks this crucial playmaking ability and may see his performance diminish when relegated to a bench role.
While the status of Brogdon’s elbow injury is uncertain, it’s unlikely it will hinder his long-term consistency. Injuries related to the leg area, as evident by the experiences of Derrick Rose, Isaiah Thomas, and Gordon Hayward, tend to have more serious implications. Overall, Hield has reached his ceiling and wouldn’t be a major upgrade over Brogdon, if at all. Unless Boston’s management pursues an All-Star caliber guard, such as Damian Lillard, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year should stay unmoved.
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