Should the Celtics Pursue Tyreke Evans?

Not confirmed. But don’t be surprised if Tyreke Evans is moved to Boston

— Ronald Tillery (@CAGrizBeat) January 28, 2018

A report from a Memphis Grizzlies’ beat writer last night suggests that we should not be surprised if Grizzlies forward Tyreke Evans is moved to the Celtics before the trade deadline.

After winning rookie of the year in 09, Tyreke Evans fell off the map big time. He was supposed to be the next big thing after being selected first overall by the Kings, but injuries have plagued his career. Now in his 9th season, it seems like he’s found himself a pretty comfortable role with Memphis. He currently averages 19.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, which is the best stat line he’s strung together since his rookie year.

The Celtics, who currently rank 23rd in the league in bench scoring with 31.8 PPG, could absolutely use what Evans is bringing to the table this year. But what would it cost?

If I’m Danny Ainge, there’s no way in hell I budge on Memphis’ desire of getting a high-end first round pick in exchange for Evans. It may be a fair price, but there’s no reason for Ainge to go all in when it would be in Memphis’ best interest to trade Evans in the first place. They know he’s a valuable asset, and their current record of 17-31 is all the more reason to try to acquire something you can build on in the future for him. Evans is having a good season, but he won’t be part of the rebuild that’s about to go down in Memphis.

If anything, I think the Celtics should throw their own draft pick (heavily protected) on the table, or maybe even a low-end player like Abdel Nader and a second rounder. I’d love to see a move to get him, but I don’t want the Celtics giving up too much for Tyreke Evans.

Written By: Nick Cherico (@NickCherico2)