The Boston Celtics were speculated to be sending Malcolm Brogdon to the Los Angeles Clippers as part of a three-team trade for Kristaps Porzingis towards the end of June. The Clippers’ front management reportedly backed out because to concerns about Brogdon’s forearm issue. Despite this setback, Brogdon is anticipated to return to regular-season action in October. This is why Boston’s choice to explore an offseason trade is critical, as the 30-year-old could reassert himself as a key member of the rotation or burden them with ailments. In an ideal world, the Celtics would trade Malcolm Brogdon to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Tre Jones and Zach Collins.
Last season, Jones averaged a career-high 12.9 points, 6.6 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game. The 23 year-old guard is known to have excellent court vision, most notably as the pick-and-roll ball-handler. The other piece of this mock trade, Collins, finished last season with a career-high 11.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game.
The 6-foot-11 center is an all-around offensive force and above-average in post defense. Though Brodgon is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, Boston would benefit from adding more depth to their rotation.
The expectation is that Jones would fill Brogdon’s role, while Collins serves as a back-up to the injury-prone Porzingis and Robert Williams III. Additionally, San Antonio’s two players are both signed to team-friendly contracts, with Jones set to earn $20 million over two years and Collins accounting for $7.7 million next season.
On the other end of the deal, Brogdon’s contract is priced at $45 million over two years. Assuming that Brogdon is used as a starter for the Spurs, it’s worth noting his recent stats within this role. During his 146 starts with the Indiana Pacers, Brogdon averaged 18.9 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds over 32.9 minutes. Based on his 67 regular-season appearances as a Celtic, Brodgon averaged 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists over 26 minutes. His pace, however, when adjusted to per 36 minutes, rivals that of his career-best.
Jones demonstrates potential for future development, but San Antonio has only a tiny sample size of the guard’s ability. Brogdon’s productivity rate, on the other hand, has remained reasonably stable throughout the last five seasons.
San Antonio must also determine which option is best for the franchise’s future superstar, 19-year-old Victor Wembanyama. A veteran floor general would most likely benefit the incoming rookie more. Overall, Boston would gain much-needed depth in their rotation with the addition of the young Jones and Collins, while San Antonio would gain a proven, respectable player in Brogdon. The Spurs will almost certainly be dealt draft picks as well.
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