Big changes are taking place on NBA trade deadline day. Word on the street is that a player might be leaving the Boston Celtics, heading to a new franchise. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers are filled with rumors of a new arrival.
Draft picks are also involved in this deal, for which Celtics General Manager Brad Stevens was recently applauded by franchise star Jayson Tatum, but the details are still a mystery to the fans. Will this be a smart move for both teams? Let’s find out.
Banton joins Trail Blazers from Celtics
It has been reported that Celtics guard Dalano Banton has officially been acquired by the Portland Trail Blazers. The news was revealed by the senior NBA insider at ESPN, Adrian Wojnarowski. The negotiations between the two teams were in place for some time, they found common ground on Thursday, and the deal was done.
According to Jake Fisher of Yahoo Sports, the assets traded in exchange for Banton by the Blazers include a top 55 2027 protected second-round pick in the swap. In the 2024–2025 season, the Blazers will hold onto Banton at a $2.2 million team option.
The 6’9 guard has spectacular height for his position, but he has struggled in terms of offensive capabilities. Banton is averaging 2.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.8 assists this season, which is not a stat line a starter at the Trail Blazers would like to have in the future.
Celtics view the trade as a salary dump
The Boston Celtics are viewing this trade as a salary dump. They will be receiving a heavily protected 2027 second-rounder that won’t be a significant game-changer for the current or future situation of the Celtics. The Celtics most probably agreed to the trade because of the financial flexibility they would achieve by letting Banton go.
Banton was a part of the Toronto Raptors before joining the Celtics last summer. However, he hasn’t seen much play since his arrival and has been on the bench for most of the time. His great height surely gives him an advantage in his position, but his lack of offensive skills holds him back.
His future with the Trail Blazers would be dependent on the same; if he is able to perform and prove himself, he would see more game time, or else he would again be traded to free up some salary cap.
What do you think of Dalano Banton’s trade between the Trail Blazers and the Celtics? Do you think Banton will be a part of the Blazers’ future? We are eager to know your thoughts, so drop down in the comments and let us know.
