Despite the best efforts of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Boston Celtics have failed to live up to expectations this season, standing at just 8th in the East with a 21-22 record through 43 games.
And now, Danny Ainge — who is feeling pressure from all sides to make a move — is going to have a lot to think about over the next few days.
According to a report by The Athletic, he’s already working on one deal that could rid the team of fan-favorite player, and premier defender, Marcus Smart, for Magic big man Aaron Gordon.
A scenario being discussed between the Magic and Celtics: Marcus Smart and two 1st-round picks to the Magic, Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier to the Celtics. (via The Athletic)
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 23, 2021
Folks were pretty split on the deal, making it clear that it’s not an easy decision to make…
Don't get this for Boston. Two 1sts for Aaron Gordon is one thing even if it's a bit steep, but why are Marcus Smart and Evan Fournier involved in this? I get that Boston needs playmaking, and Fournier is a really underrated shooter, but for the love of God, don't trade Smart. pic.twitter.com/WKfHGyGTdv
— Sam Quinn (@SamQuinnCBS) March 23, 2021
Dammmm the Celtics really gonna give up smart 👀👀
— 🔥 (@AbbasT22) March 23, 2021
Umm.. no? This is horrendous. Give away an S-tier defender to get a guy who wouldn’t stay past his contract, doc how good he is that’s a waste. And then Fournier is injured every other week. This would be such a waste, be damn upset if this actually happens
— Wxlfyy ~ Rob (@WxlfyyRob) March 23, 2021
Thats a good trade for the celtics
— cam (@Greekfreekfan) March 23, 2021
https://twitter.com/squirtdemon/status/1374220571681116161
Obviously, Smart has been a huge part of their core group for the last few years. On defense, he has been their leader and tone-setter. He also serves as the team’s enforcer and motivator, constantly bringing energy and life to a Celtics team with big expectations.
To trade him is a pretty big risk, even for a guy like Gordon.
In Orlando, he has established himself as a pretty solid two-way player. While Boston needs some help in the frontcourt, it remains to be seen how consistent and dependable Gordon can be over long stretches and in the playoffs.
But we’ll see if Boston has the guts to pull this off.
