Reason V: Nerlens Noel would re-sign with Boston
The hurdle with any team’s interest in pursuing Nerlens Noel is the ability to re-sign him to an affordable long term deal. He has never shied away from letting Boston know he would love to play for the Celtics:
Also, let's remember that after a HINT of Noel trade rumors this summer he blacked out his profile pic, pledged allegiance to Boston, etc
— Josh Wilson (@J_WilsonSports) February 13, 2017
And right now, Boston’s team is ideally suited for the Nerlens Wall. Boston is set up in a small ball lineup, and Danny Ainge is shrewd enough to know the fit is ideal. Noel may not possess the physicality of Okafor, he makes up for in agility and finesse. Noel does not bring huge scoring skills to the table. Fortunately, for the Celtics, he doesn’t need to.
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Noel does give the Celtics the ability to shut down the opponent scoring in the paint. He forces teams to focus more on the perimeter. While that has not always benefited the 76ers, the Celtics are structured to capitalize on it.
So what is the cost of an NBA championship? For a sure thing, the sky is the limit. But how certain is an NBA Championship with Noel? Hmm. It’s a tough call. I do not see the current Boston Celtics roster getting there. Before competing teams improved, Boston could not defeat them. Now, the Celtics are further behind.
Next: Trade Rumors: Will Jahlil Okafor Get Dealt?
Nerlens Noel or Jahlil Okafor can place the Boston Celtics over the top today. And with the gift of the Brooklyn Nets picks, the Celtics can afford to take a chance now. The window is closing on Danny Ainge, deal or no deal. It’s time to make a move Danny. Now.