The Boston Celtics will try to save money this offseason, which means center Kristaps Porzingis might be on a new team next season. Boston's two daunting tasks are getting under the NBA's second tax apron while remaining a title contender.
That could mean potentially downgrading from Porzingis while still getting a talented center in return. Boston likely won't have Jayson Tatum for the 2025-26 season, but will still compete with their roster.
One way they could complete both tasks is by trading for a player familiar with the team. MassLive's Brian Robb proposed the following trade between the Celtics and Portland Trail Blazers in which the Celtics would receive a familiar face in return.
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis
David Butler II-Imagn Images
This hypothetical scenario brings back former Celtics center Robert Williams, while sending Porzingis to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Trail Blazers receive: Porzingis
Celtics receive: Robert Williams III, Matisse Thybulle
Robb explained why both sides would agree to this trade, citing Portland's desire to compete and Boston's potential sentimental desire.
"Blazers look ready to be a more competitive team next year and they do have a logjam in the frontcourt, " Robb wrote. "Bringing in Porzingis here would allow for a potential offensive upgrade if they are looking to play with more double bigs. Thybulle is coming off an injury and Williams would be a feel good return story for Boston amid a season of change."
Williams proved himself an excellent rim protector in Boston, having made the NBA's All-Defense second team in 2022. Unfortunately, he also showed how injury-prone he is. Williams' injury problems have only gotten worse in Portland, as he's played in 26 games combined in the last two seasons.