It’s only been a few days since the Boston Celtics 2018-19 season came to a screeching halt at the hands of the Milwaukee Bucks, but it appears that’s enough time for the NBA rumor mill to get started.
With Kyrie Irving’s future in Boston still in doubt, question marks surround the prospect of the Celtics acquiring Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans. When Davis’ list of teams surfaced around the NBA trade deadline, Boston was not on his short list of desirables. But Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge had one of the strongest packages to offer the Pelicans and has reportedly been interested in the big man for some time.
With Irving still on the roster, trading for Davis makes sense. Without him, well, that could put the Celtics in an odd predicament, given it’d likely take Jayson Tatum or Jalen Brown, if not both, along with other pieces to bring in Davis.
Furthermore, if the Celtics acquired Davis without Irving on the team it might be more challenging to keep the big man beyond the one year that’s left on his contract. It may seem unlikely, but according to David Aldridge of The Athletic, it’s not impossible. Alrdige reported on Friday Davis might stay in an Irving-less Boston:
I’ve heard that Davis wouldn’t completely rule out staying with the Celtics without Irving, but the odds of him re-upping in that scenario are significantly lower.
The Celtics would have to make some adjustments if they have Davis without Irving and other significant pieces, but if Davis isn’t opposed to sticking around without Boston’s star guard, maybe he’ll strongly consider staying with the C’s if Irving doesn’t leave either.
