3 Celtics Who Won’t Survive the Trade Deadline

The Boston Celtics have a record of 33-15 and are in second place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Celtics started the season 21-5 but since December 15th, the Celtics are 13-10 in their last 23 games and haven’t been able to replicate the same play that won them the championship last year.

With the trade deadline just a week away, the Celtics could either stay put or potentially trade away these three players.

1. Jaden Springer, SG

Jaden Springer started his career with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2021 where he wasn’t able to earn much playing time. Springer averaged 3.4 points, 1.5 rebounds, and .6 steals in 50 games in three seasons before being traded to the Celtics last season. He’s maintained a similar role on Joe Mazzulla’s ‘stay ready’ group but has seen an uptick in his playing time. 

In January, Springer saw his role increase as he averaged 2.3 points, .5 rebounds, and .7 steals in 5.5 minutes per game.

His minutes have increased recently and had a great game against the Los Angeles Clippers as the Celtics were down multiple players. Springer provided a much-needed spark with 10 points, four steals, and two three-pointers in 20 minutes of action to help the Celtics win. 

Springer is an excellent defender and has slowly improved his three-point shooting but hasn’t been able to earn playing time due to the Celtics' depth. Given that Springer hasn’t carved a role with the team, the Celtics should look into trading him.

Springer, 22, is set to become a free agent after this year and is currently making $4 million this season. What he needs is a team that’s willing to let him develop and improve by giving him playing time. The Celtics have championship aspirations and don’t have the time to let a young player grow.

The Celtics should trade Springer to lower the luxury tax bill or acquire a player on an equal salary who can provide bench scoring.