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ProFitX Trade Tracker: Grant Williams
Nick Crain | 2/8/23
The Boston Celtics have been the best team in the NBA to this point in the season, but still have a few things to figure out at the trade deadline. One consideration is the future of Grant Williams in Boston, as he’s set to become a restricted free agent this summer. At 24 years old, he’s a highly impactful player that will almost certainly demand a large contract this summer, so there’s a chance the Celtics would move Williams if they can maintain a contending roster in the process to avoid losing him. Based on his on-court production value this season the 6-foot-6 wing is drastically outperforming his contract, which goes to show just how much he could earn on a new deal this offseason.
Boston is known to have a desire to add center depth ahead of the trade deadline, so any deal that would help with frontcourt depth could be enticing for the front office. With that in mind, moving Williams will not be an easy decision even if his free agency is looming.
All things considered, let’s use ProFitX’s trade model to identify three trade packages that could make sense as a starting point for the rising impact player, draft compensation aside.
Hornets Add Proven Talent
The Hornets have quite a bit of talent on paper, but haven’t been able to pull off many wins this season. As they move forward and build around LaMelo Ball, adding young talent that’s already proving to impact winning will be key. Williams would be a huge step in the right direction, and Charlotte has plenty of frontcourt talent to offer as part of a package.
Pelicans Provide Center Help
While he doesn’t necessary stuff the stat sheet, Willy Hernangomez does a ton in the minutes he’s on the floor. In fact, when looking at his per possession numbers, he’s one of the more efficient backup centers that Boston could reasonably acquire. There may have to be additional draft compensation in this type of deal, but if the Celtics are serious about adding a center this could be a great starting point.
Sixers Add Wing Depth
Paul Reed and Georges Niang are very different types of forwards, but would provide flexibility in the types of lineups Boston could roll out in the postseason. Starting with those two as a package for Williams could make sense if the Celtics want to add shooting and power at the same time.