It seemed the Boston Celtics are always in the rumor mill to make a major deal at the trade deadline in the past few years. However, without the outrageous amount of enticing draft picks and potential young breakout stars on the roster they typically have, Brad Stevens is looking for diamonds in the rough. One of those players that fit the bill is Nuggets forward Jeff Green.
While Green was putting on a dunking exhibition against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, linked him with Phoenix Suns center Jalen Smith in the Celtics’ trade rumors on the HoopsHype podcast on Wednesday.
UNCLE JEFF TURN ME UPPPPP!!!! (via @nuggets) pic.twitter.com/ynIN2K4seX
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 14, 2022
“The Boston Celtics have expressed interest in re-acquiring forward Jeff Green, league sources told HoopsHype. Green was coached by Brad Stevens in Boston. I’ve also heard former lottery pick Aaron Nesmith and guard Dennis Schroeder are also available in Boston. They’ve made several calls doing due diligence, including to Phoenix regarding Jalen Smith’s availability.” Scotto said.
While the Denver Nuggets have shown no indication for dealing the veteran, Green could provide a scoring and rebounding punch off the bench, a role that has kept him in the NBA for years. Also, he could be a solid veteran presence in the locker room which has been an issue at times this season.
Green reportedly has a good relationship with Celtics Coach Ime Udoka when the two had success last season with the Brooklyn Nets, and he would give Boston a versatile defender. He has a player option for $4.5 million for next season.
The 35-year-old started 24 of his 36 games and averaged 10.4 points and 3.1 rebounds for Denver this season.
Leader of the slept on posters community. All hail, Uncle Jeff. pic.twitter.com/ejKfxbAjxx
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) January 14, 2022
