The Boston Celtics reportedly have retained an interest in adding Atlanta Hawks big man John Collins to their roster in new reporting from The Athletic’s Shams Charania, but the ask on the soon-to-be restricted free agent may be above and beyond what the Celtics are willing to cough up.
According to Charania, the Hawks have held firm on a big ask for Collins, with the Georgia franchise looking for a deal in the neighborhood of “high-level first-round draft pick and/or a talented young player”. The NBA insider also suggests that frequently-rumored Sacramento Kings forward Harrison Barnes remains a “more logical and likely target” for Boston as the trade deadline draws nearer.
Spurs' Aldridge linked to Celtics as a trade target, but does that make sense? https://t.co/pP1iB5BwJr
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) March 15, 2021
Given the likely high cost and uncertainties regarding Collins’ future cap impact and happiness as a third option, Barnes indeed would likely make for a better match, particularly given his salary declines from about $22 million this season to $20 million next and $18 million in its final year.
This would also line up with the end of point guard Kemba Walker’s current deal, allowing the Celtics some team-building flexibility for the next era of Boston basketball starting in the 2023-24 season.
This post originally appeared on Celtics Wire. Follow us on Facebook!
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