NBA Draft 2016: 5 players who could be traded on draft day
By Tom West
1. Marcus Smart
This isn’t the only name that could appear in the Celtics’ side of a draft night trade. With their almost endless amount of guys who could be notable role players for many teams, including Jared Sullinger, Kelly Olynyk, Amir Johnson and Evan Turner, Danny Ainge has plenty of pieces at his disposal to pad out a trade package. Along with the 3rd overall pick, multiple teams would be interested in pursuing the kind of rebuilding haul that would feature such a high selection in the draft and a couple of young, talented players.
In fact, after making trade calls with the Bulls for Jimmy Butler around the deadline, it’s clear Ainge is ready to package his role players together (even if taking the right combination and picks takes some work). K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune reported the following back in March:
"Speaking of Butler, the Boston Herald reported the Celtics engaged the Bulls in talks centered on the two-time All-Star near the Feb. 18 trade deadline. A source said the Celtics offered future picks and current reserves and discussion ended quickly."
So, while many Celtics fit the bill as to who may be dealt, Marcus Smart is certainly suitable and carries more value than most of the players mentioned above. He’s only 22 years old and has made himself known as a hounding defender, playing aggressively to keep his body in front of anyone Brad Stevens puts him on, adding solid averages of 5.5 rebounds and two steals per 36 minutes as well.
The obvious drawback is his shooting, which — despite some random hot spells in the playoffs — leaves a lot to be desired for now after he shot 25.3 percent from three and a painful 34.8 percent overall this season. However, that’s a weakness that can be improved, and his motor, defense, hustle, and improved passing make him a worthwhile acquisition for many teams around the NBA lacking depth at point guard.
The Celtics, however, have plenty of talented backcourt players, prompting the option to make Smart a complimentary piece in a potential trade with the No. 3 pick.
Until the 2016 NBA Draft is upon us, though, and more detailed rumors emerge about which players (pros and prospects alike) teams have their eyes on, we’ll have to settle for speculation.
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