Thursday, June 25, 2015

Report: Celtics willing to offer Philly a handful if Okafor slips in Draft

Associated Press

While trade talks surrounding DeMarcus Cousins heat up on Draft Day, it looks like the Celtics are already seeking other options for bringing in a big man.

As Ohio State D'Angelo Russell's stock continues to rise, the Celtics are reportedly prepared to offer Philadelphia a deal they cannot refuse for their third pick to draft Jahlil Okafor.

If the Lakers decide to take the young Buckeye over Okafor, the promising big man, the 76ers will be receiving a call or two from Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge.

Russell, a scoring point guard who is also a great passer, would fill-in a dying need for the Lakers at the point if the Lakers decide to pass on Jahlil Okafor. And Philadelphia also needs help at the point guard position, a gaping hole in their lineup ever since they traded away Michael Carter-Williams last season at the trade deadline. But Russell may not be available if the Lakers draft him at second.

Celtics reportedly offered Philly a packaged deal that included Marcus Smart, Kelly Olynyk and their two 2015 first round picks for the third pick and center Nerlens Noel. Philadelphia declined the deal but it looks like Ainge is prepared to pull out an 'impossible to refuse' offer if Okafor is still available after Minnesota and Los Angeles make their selections.

Marcus Smart will most definitely be involved in this potential offer. The 76ers will not trade their top pick without receiving a starting point guard in return. The rest of the offered deal will be up to Danny.

Stay tuned and see what happens tonight. We will keep you updated.


Josue Pavon
Twitter: @Joe_Sway10
@CausewayStreet

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