Did the Celtics Make a Trade?

General manager Danny Ainge revealed the prognosis on a conference call with reporters after standing pat at the National Basketball Association trade deadline on Thursday. And despite a rumor that the Nuggets turned the Clippers down in a potential deal involving Blake Griffin, there’s still a chance the Celtics could entice the Nuggets here.

“We’ll sit down with David and his representatives and have some conversation about what’s best for us and what’s best for David in the next 24-to-48 hours”, Ainge said. Although there is a doubt that Hayward will be available, the Celtics should sign him in the off-season. Trading Kevin Love in my opinion is what will bring Cleveland a championship this year, it all depends on what deal they get.

With no clear upgrades available at prices the Celtics were willing to pay, Ainge is hoping to use some of his numerous assets in a deal this offseason. I mean, just look at how things have played out where he’s been.

Atlanta center Al Horford, another big name that has been attached to the Celtics, falls into that group – with a price tag that represents steep risk for a player who is about to become a free agent. But we also feel like there are other opportunities to have more surety in what we’re doing in what deals we’re making.

“When I’m looking at players out there, I’m looking at players that can make a big difference”, Ainge told the Boston Herald’s Steve Bullpett.

Instead of making a move, Ainge elected to hold onto his extensive collection of future assets, including three future first-round draft picks from the Brooklyn Nets. Ainge, however, explained that the team’s success thus far actually makes it more tempting to seek a trade and try to improve in order to more of a chance for an immediate banner run. Teams know exactly what they have with their current stars, whereas draft picks (even lottery picks) always come with some hesitation. I think my staff did a fantastic job this time.

Boston will nearly definitely have to give up at least two first-round picks – including Brooklyn’s unprotected first-round pick, which is projected to be the No. 4 overall pick – along with a combination of players. “There’s some players that did get our attention and some that did not get our attention in regard to that pick”. However, the Celtics will be loaded with draft picks in the next draft, mainly because of what they did in the Trade Deadline a year ago.

“Chemistry is everything, camaraderie is everything, it would be something special if they made a trade and someone fit in right away, but there’s an adjustment period to everything and people have to get acclimated”.

There is no great benefit to letting Lee go, but, if he’s not going to play here, Ainge doesn’t want to see an 11-year veteran tied to the pine.

Free agency is another huge factor that will influence teams with the trade deadline looming; it’s shaping up to be a free agency bonanza in July.