Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report proposed a three-team NBA trade idea that would save the Boston Celtics $230 million.
If the Celtics don't make any trades this offseason, they will have the most expensive roster in the NBA next season.
Since All-Star Jayson Tatum could miss all of next season recovering from his right Achilles tendon tear, it doesn't make sense for Boston's new ownership group to pay for the most expensive roster in the league.
The Celtics likely won't be a title contender next season without Tatum.
In Pincus' trade idea, the Celtics trade Jrue Holiday to the Dallas Mavericks and Kristaps Porzingis, Xavier Tillman Sr. and Neemias Queta to the Brooklyn Nets.
In return, Boston gets Daniel Gafford and PJ Washington from Dallas and Drew Timme from Brooklyn.
"Gafford doesn't have the same offensive arsenal as Porzingis, but he's a productive and capable center (be it as a starter or reserve)," Pincus wrote. "Washington can't replace Tatum's offensive production, but he may be the best available veteran forward to fill in immediately.
"Both have NBA Finals experience with the Mavericks. Both are extension-eligible, should they fit into the team's long-term plans."
The Celtics won the 2024 championship against the Mavericks in five games. They were the second seed in the East this year and beat the Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs in five games.
Boston lost to the New York Knicks in the conference semifinals in six games. Tatum tore his right Achilles tendon in Game 4.
"Post-trade (and with Al Horford/Luke Kornet at $10 million), Boston would have 15 players at $205.1 million with a $63.2 million tax bill. That's a $268.3 million total for a still-competitive squad while saving a stunning $233.8 million," Pincus wrote.
It will be intriguing to see if the Celtics make any major trades this offseason.
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