The Boston Celtics have been at the center of trade speculation all offseason. After Jayson Tatum’s Achilles tear and the departures of Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday, many expected a reshuffling of the roster. Now, a new trade idea has emerged that would send another key piece of Boston’s 2024 championship team out the door.
Shared by @Andrew_Fenichel on Twitter, the Fanspo-generated trade involves a surprising partner — the Celtics’ 2024 NBA Finals opponent, the Dallas Mavericks:
- Celtics receive: Daniel Gafford, P.J. Washington, 2029 first-round pick (via Lakers), 2032 first-round pick
- Mavericks receive: Derrick White, Xavier Tillman
Derrick White has been the subject of trade rumors throughout the offseason, though many believed he was safe after recent exits thinned Boston’s core. But this deal offers intriguing value. With Porziņģis gone and Al Horford nearing the end of his career, Gafford and Washington provide frontcourt depth and youth. Add in two future first-rounders, and Boston secures both assets and financial flexibility.
Still, the big question looms: Is Derrick White worth moving? He was integral to the Celtics’ title run — elite defensively, reliable offensively, and a strong locker room presence. The picks from 2029 and 2032 may not become premium assets, and swapping White’s impact for uncertain future value could backfire.
That said, if the Celtics aren’t planning a title push next season due to Tatum’s injury, the move could be seen as a proactive retooling. Gafford and Washington are capable contributors, and Boston would maintain competitiveness while gaining long-term flexibility.
As the offseason continues, trades like this highlight a possible shift in Boston’s strategy — from contending to recalibrating.
