ESPN: Celtics predicted to trade payton for the 76ers PG…

There has been growing speculation in the NBA community regarding a potential trade between the Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers, with ESPN predicting that the Celtics could move guard Payton Pritchard in exchange for a point guard from Philadelphia. The deal, if it were to materialize, could address certain roster needs for both teams and reshape their backcourt depth as they head deeper into the season.

Payton Pritchard, who has displayed flashes of brilliance off the bench for Boston, has struggled to secure consistent playing time this season, particularly with the Celtics’ crowded backcourt. While Pritchard is a capable shooter and playmaker, his role on the team has diminished due to the emergence of other guards, including Marcus Smart, Derrick White, and even the recent performances from other backup players. This has led to speculation that the Celtics may be open to moving him in exchange for a more established point guard who could help bolster their second unit or provide more depth behind Smart and White.

On the other side, the 76ers may be looking to add a scoring guard or sharpshooter who can contribute off the bench, especially if they are seeking to lighten the workload for their star players. If the Celtics pursue a point guard from the 76ers, names like Tyrese Maxey, though unlikely to be traded, or a more feasible backup could be involved, depending on the specifics of the deal.

Such a trade would make sense for both teams, with Boston gaining more depth at the point guard position and the 76ers adding a versatile backup guard in Pritchard. While no deal is imminent, rumors continue to swirl as both teams assess their rosters and look to make moves that could position them for success later in the season.