Friday, February 10, 2023

Celtics trade for Oklahoma City Thunder center Mike Muscala


The Celtics made their only move ahead of Thursday's trade deadline by acquiring big man Mike Muscala from the Oklahoma City Thunder for Justin Jackson and two second round picks, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Muscala, 31, is signed for $3.5 million this season and has a team option of $3.5 million for the 2023-24 campaign. The 6-foot-11 center is averaging 6.2 points on 43.8% from the floor and 39.4% (on just over three attempts per contest). He's a career 37.9% shooter from deep in 11-plus seasons. 


With this deal, the Celtics -- who just beat the Philadelphia 76ers in a 106-99 win without Al Horford and Robert Williams -- are adding some more frontcourt depth to the roster. Muscala is not only another big in Joe Mazzulla's lineup, but he's also capable of hitting 3-pointers to help spread the floor.

Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens pulled off the trade by absorbing Muscala's $3.5 million salary into the $5.9 million TPE that was created when they dealt Dennis Schröder at last season's deadline -- which was set to expire yesterday at 3 PM ET. Boston also has an open roster spot after moving on from Noah Vonleh over a month ago in a trade with the San Antonio Spurs.


While Danilo Gallinari was not moved Thursday, the Celtics still own a Disabled Player Exception of $3.2 million if they choose to add a player via the buyout market in the upcoming weeks.
 

Joel Pavón




Photo used courtesy of Getty Images

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