There have been a lot of moving pieces within the Boston Celtics these days. Rajon Rondo could return to the lineup Friday night, and newly acquired Jarryd Bayless is now a factor.
With depth now a luxury, the Celtics may be trying to move Jordan Crawford, columnist Peter Vecsey suggested, listing the Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors as potential suitors.
Crawford previously played under Clippers head coach Doc Rivers, and with point guard Chris Paul out an extended period of time due to a separated shoulder some depth in the backcourt rotation could be necessary. In Brooklyn, Deron Williams has been unable to stay in the lineup consistently, battling an ankle injury for most of the season. Crawford could be an upgrade for the Nets at the point guard position. And in Houston, Crawford could certainly be a welcomed backup to Jeremy Lin.
Crawford is a candidate for Most Improved Player this season, averaging 13.7 points, 5.7 assists and 3.1 rebounds in a career-high 35 starts. He owns an assist-to-turnover ratio of 3-to-1 and is shooting 41 percent from the field, just a hair below a career-best mark.
The Celtics may be forced to act quickly if they want to move Crawford. With Rondo on the verge of returning and Crawford’s minutes likely to be reduced, his trade value will only decline as time goes on.
