BOSTON CELTICS EYEING KRIS DUNN AS TRADE DEADLINE LOOMS
The Boston Celtics are running out of time to make a move before they can no longer use the $6.2 million Grant Williams trade exception. With limited options available, one potential target for the Celtics is Utah Jazz guard Kris Dunn.
According to a recent report by MassLive’s Brian Robb, the Celtics have expressed interest in acquiring Dunn using the Williams TPE. The team is exploring the possibility of adding less costly players who fit within the trade exception or a minimum trade exception. The Jazz have emerged as a potential trade partner, with sources indicating that they have considered offering 6-foot-7 Italian forward Simone Fontecchio and former lottery pick Kris Dunn.
Dunn, who was selected as the No. 5 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, is owed $2.58 million this season by the Jazz. This makes him a viable option for the Celtics to absorb into their trade exception. While Fontecchio has since been acquired by the Detroit Pistons, Dunn remains available for a potential trade.
Interestingly, Kris Dunn has had a previous stint with the Celtics. He was acquired by the team in a three-way trade involving the Atlanta Hawks and Sacramento Kings in 2021. However, the Celtics subsequently traded him to the Memphis Grizzlies before the start of the 2021-22 season. Since then, Dunn has had various G-League appearances and a brief tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers before finding a home with the Jazz in 2023. Since joining the starting lineup, the Jazz have enjoyed a 16-8 record, bringing their overall record to 26-26. Dunn’s contributions have played a part in their success.
It’s worth noting that the Celtics had the opportunity to draft Dunn with the No. 3 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, but they ultimately chose Jaylen Brown instead. While Dunn has proven himself as a capable NBA player, the Celtics’ decision to select Brown has been justified.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Boston Celtics and their potential pursuit of Kris Dunn. Will they be able to strike a deal and bolster their roster? Only time will tell.
The Celtics are exploring their options beyond Kris Dunn. According to an article on Yahoo Sports!, the team is interested in two players who fit into their Grant Williams trade exception. This exception allows them to absorb players who make up to $100,000 more than the exception.
One player on Boston’s radar is Otto Porter Jr., who currently plays for the Nets. Porter makes $6.3 million and could be a valuable veteran addition to the Celtics. Another player generating interest is Lonnie Walker, a guard for the Nets. Walker has been playing well on a minimum contract and has caught the attention of playoff teams.
While there is a possibility of acquiring both players, it would require different methods. One player could be obtained using the trade exception, while the other would need to be exchanged for another player or players.
There is also speculation that Porter may be bought out by the Raptors. Since joining the team in 2022, Porter has struggled with injuries. If he becomes a free agent, the Celtics may seize the opportunity to sign him.
Matt John is a sports reporter who covers the Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns.