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Boston Celtics rumors: Team targeting Kyle Korver via trade

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: Kyle Korver #26 of the Cleveland Cavaliers warms up prior to Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: Kyle Korver #26 of the Cleveland Cavaliers warms up prior to Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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The Boston Celtics are reportedly one of the teams targeting veteran sharpshooter Kyle Korver through trade.

With LeBron James taking his talents to Hollywood, the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to unload the contracts of some of their veteran players.  That includes 37-year-old sharpshooter Kyle Korver and the Boston Celtics are one of teams interested in his services.

With the Cavaliers expected to be out of championship contention, trading Korver to a championship contender makes sense.  Not only would they clear up $7.5 million in salary, they would be able to begin a rebuild process.  As far as the Celtics go, adding someone like Korver would certainly boost their bench.

According to Sam Amico of Amico Hoops, the Celtics aren’t the only Eastern Conference contender with interest.  Two of their rivals, the Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors, are also aiming for Korver’s services.

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"“Korver is drawing at least some interest, apparently from the Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.  All are Eastern Conference contenders, and Korver would be a major boost off the bench for a team looking to reach the Finals.”"

While a return to Philadelphia would seem intriguing for Korver, the Celtics have a storage of draft picks the Cavs are reported to be seeking.  Are teams willing to give up a first-round pick for the aging three-point specialist?   That is where trade talks will stall, at least right now.

A first-round pick seems like a lot to give up for Kyle Korver, unless it’s a very late first-round pick.  With the Boston Celtics expected to be competing for championships over the next few years, giving up their own first-round pick is an option for Danny Ainge considering that they have the Sacramento Kings pick and Memphis Grizzlies pick (both potential high lottery picks in 2019 or 2020).

Ainge, however, may be more apt to hold on to all picks to target a potential Anthony Davis deal in the future.  Therefore, the Cavs may need to come down on their asking for the Celtics to stay interesting.

What Kyle Korver could add

Coming off a season in which he averaged 9.2 points per game, Kyle Korver adds instant offense off the bench and veteran leadership.

During the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics, Korver was one of the bright spots off the bench.  With J.R. Smith struggling, the veteran sharpshooter gave the Cleveland Cavaliers the spark they needed during the seven-game series.

More than his offense, Korver was impressive with how he defended.  That would be important on a Boston Celtics team that strives on a switching type defense.  It would also benefit the Celtics to keep him away from either the Raptors or 76ers.

Next: Boston Celtics: 5 teams road blocking a 2018-19 NBA Finals berth

Of course, it would also be nice to keep him away from the Golden State Warriors.  Kind of kidding there, but you never know.

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