Report: It is “strongly expected” that the Celtics will act before the deadline.
Following Sunday’s decision to guarantee the contracts of four Celtics players—Luke Kornet, Dalano Banton, Lamar Stevens, and Svi Mykhailiuk—there was word that Boston was ready to be active in the trade market.
Although Kornet’s assurance won’t be shocking given his significant rotational minutes this year, the Celtics usually turn to Banton, Stevens, and Mykhailiuk when they are shorthanded or facing a blowout. This season, Kornet has been used sparingly by Boston coach Joe Mazzulla. In 14.2 minutes per game, he is scoring 5.1 points and pulling down 3.7 rebounds.
Additionally, a source informed Robb that there is no assurance that the four players will remain in Boston for the upcoming campaign, even though the Cs are willing to guarantee the contracts. With the $6.2 million trade exception from Grant Williams’ signing and trade to the Dallas Mavericks, the four contracts give the Celtics flexibility in salary matching and negotiations. Boston can package multiple players on league minimum contracts with another rostered player for a more expensive player.
The Celtics demonstrate to their supporters that they aren’t scared to spend money to win by keeping the four non-guaranteed contracts, which further increases their luxury tax liability.
