Terry Rozier burst onto the scene last postseason, averaging 16.5 points during the Boston Celtics’ playoff run, and many expected him to continue his growth this season.
But with the return of a healthy Kyrie Irving, Rozier has seen his minutes and production dip so far in the 2018-19 season, as he is averaging just 7.5 points per game through 10 contests. This has led to rumors that Rozier is unhappy with the playing time he’s been receiving.
While Rozier shot down the idea that he’s upset, that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from beginning to whisper about a potential deal. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday that seven teams have checked in with Boston about the possibility of acquiring the backup guard.
So is Scary Terry on his way out of Boston? Not so fast.
Boston Sports Journal’s Brian Robb reported Wednesday, citing a league source, that the Celtics’ chances of dealing Rozier are “extremely unlikely.”
While you can never say never with president of basketball operations Danny Ainge, Rozier is a vital part of what Boston is trying to do this season and potentially in the future whether that be signing him to a long-term deal or using him as a trade chip in a potential deal for another star of future assets. The Louisville product is an athletic guard who has the ability to fill it up on any night, giving the Celtics a bench threat who can play on and off the ball. He also serves as a valuable backup to Irving who has had his troubles with injuries.
Some team still could overwhelm the C’s with an offer for Rozier, but at this point, it seems like the offer would have to blow Ainge away in order to sell off the 24-year-old budding star.
