Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report proposed a mock deal that would replace Robert Williams III in the Boston Celtics’ frontcourt: sending Jordan Walsh and/or a future first-round draft pick for Charlotte Hornets big man Nick Richards.
“The Celtics could absolutely feel they need more frontcourt protection than they’ve had this season, which could put Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards on their radar,” Buckley said, before adding, “He is a rock-solid, reliable, and athletic 7-footer who’d help replace some of the bounce and paint protection they lost when they had to include Robert Williams III in the Jrue Holiday trade.”
“Richards would be the most difficult to acquire of the players we’ve discussed, but he’s probably not out of the question. Not when the Hornets, who are rebuilding, need more assets and already have Mark Williams as their building block big man. It may require a package headlined by a protected first-round pick or even 20-year-old rookie Jordan Walsh, but the certainty the Celtics would acquire at the center position could be worth it.”
Nick Richards, a low-cost big-man, is ideal for the Boston Celtics frontcourt. Buckley excelled here.
Given Sam Hauser’s rise behind All-NBA wings Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, it could be years before the Celtics have a genuine role for Arkansas product Jordan Walsh, so finding him a place to grow as quickly as possible may be the greatest thing Brad Stevens can do for his growth.
Can Walsh now develop in Charlotte? Based on Grant Williams’ ascent to prominence in the Queen City, maybe. Just maybe. But that wouldn’t be Boston’s problem anymore.
Richards, who will earn $5 million in 2024-25 and has no guaranteed contract in 2025-26, is the ideal dice play for the Celtics. Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford may have more guilt-free days off next season if he is durable enough as a two-way rim runner. With Xavier Tillman and Luke Kornet’s futures uncertain, the Celtics’ front management is looking for someone who can give solid pivot minutes at a low cost.
Richards satisfies these desires and comes from a franchise that isn’t exactly known for duping other front offices in trades.
Boston is always eager to make changes to win, and DraftKings allows you to do the same in an instant. You can win $150 in free bets if you sign up, deposit $10 or more, and then wager $5 or more on any Celtics game. Sign up for DraftKings with this link today!
