Celtics Could Be Targeting Defensive Player of the Year on Trade Market

With Ja Morant trade rumors getting louder and louder, everyone is starting to wonder, will the Memphis Grizzlies trade away more of their veteran pieces?

Morant’s trade value certainly isn’t where it used to be, and the Grizzlies may not be able to get the draft capital or young pieces they are hoping to get in return for him. If they can’t, they could consider trading Jaren Jackson Jr., their second star, who still could command a healthy return if put on the trade market. 

Recently it was reported that a surprise Eastern Conference team could be interested in pursuing Memphis’ Jackson Jr. 

“Multiple league sources have asserted something whispered in the wind for a long time: The Boston Celtics would love to add Jaren Jackson Jr… But if Boston loads up a pick-heavy trade package with some nice talent or tradeable contracts (Jordan Walsh, Hugo Gonzalez) for a Memphis team that would be starting over, does that get them there? Is anyone going to beat that offer for Jaren? Is Jaren’s value better in a year under Iisalo and next to Edey, or worse? ”

The Boston Celtics are always liable to make a big move, and grabbing Jaren Jackson Jr. would be a huge move for them. Jackson Jr. would fit well in the Celtics system, both as a defender and three-point shooter. 

If Jackson Jr. does end up on the trade block, would the Celtics be the highest bidder? They don’t NEED JJJ and probably would be apprehensive to put a ton of assets into the deal to get him. However, if the price doesn’t get astronomical, they could be a dark horse trade destination for the former Defensive Player of the Year.