Terry Rozier probably won’t be involved in this week’s episode of “Trading Places.”
The Boston Celtics are unlikely to trade the point guard before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported Wednesday, citing league sources.
Not only is Rozier a key member of the Celtics’ current rotation. He also represents a valuable chip in negotiations Boston might engage in moving forward — like for, say, Anthony Davis.
“League sources don’t expect the Celtics to move (Rozier),” O’Connor wrote. “… Unless Boston is blown away, Rozier is viewed as insurance in case Kyrie Irving leaves, or as a potential sign-and-trade sweetener in a trade for Anthony Davis.”
Rozier’s future has been a hot topic all season due to the 24-year-old’s impending (restricted) free agency and the factors O’Connor highlighted. Speculation has only intensified with the NBA trade deadline approaching.
The Celtics remain in the hunt for Eastern Conference supremacy and perhaps even an NBA championship, and Rozier, who has thrived when called upon as a starter, will be integral to their pursuit of success.
Although a lot can change in the lead-up to the trade deadline, expect “Scary Terry” to continue frightening Boston’s opponents for the next few months. After that, anything is possible.