Celtics Add Competent Veteran Forward in Projected Trade

The Boston Celtics are 19-5 on the season and continue their chase for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The reigning champions have one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the NBA, making them the title favorites once again. On paper, they don't need upgrades, but more depth and veteran competence never hurt anybody.

Before the February 6 trade deadline, the Celtics could make a deal or two to set themselves up better for the final stretch of the regular season and the playoffs. The best way to do so will be through trading Jaden Springer and his $4 million salary. Jack Anderson of the Celtics Blog identified a few potential trade targets and one veteran forward is particularly intriguing.

Torrey Craig of the Chicago Bulls could be a solid deep bench option for the Celtics and give them more physicality and defensive chops in case of an emergency.

The biggest reason for the Celtics to make such a move is financial. Boston is the third-most expensive team in the league and will have the largest payroll next season. The ownership needs to cut salary to lower its exorbitant tax bill.

Springer's $4 million salary is the easiest way to do so. The former first-round pick failed to crack the rotation after being acquired at last season's trade deadline. The 22-year-old shooting guard only appeared in seven games this season, exclusively in garbage time. There is no reason for the Celtics to pay above the minimum salary for their 14th or 15th player on the roster.

Instead, they can attach a second-round pick and lower their payroll by acquiring Torrey Craig who makes $2.8 million. Craig is not going to change the fate of the Celtics organization but he could be a more reliable option if needed. The 33-year-old forward has 75 playoff games under his belt and a three-and-D skillset that could be useful in the postseason.

Craig is not a part of Chicago's rebuilding plans this season, so he should be easily acquirable. He has shot over 38% from downtown in the last three seasons, making him a good fit for Mazzulla Ball.

More Celtics news and rumors: