The Sixer Sense
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5 teams who should trade for Jahlil Okafor

By Christopher Kline

PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 1: Jahlil Okafor #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at the Wells Fargo Center on November 1, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 1: Jahlil Okafor #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at the Wells Fargo Center on November 1, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images)
(Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images) /

2. Boston Celtics

The Celtics are reportedly the most interested of all the teams in Okafor’s services, which makes since given their limited depth up front. Aron Baynes and Al Horford are the only players 6-foot-10 or taller on that roster, while their primary reserves are based around names like Daniel Theis and Semi Ojeleye.

There’s room for Okafor to carve out a bench role on one of the conference’s most competitive teams.

With that said, Okafor doesn’t solve any of the issues Boston’s size-deprived frontcourt currently has. He’s not a plus rebounder, and his defense won’t benefit a team that’s currently outperforming expectations on that side of the ball. Brad Stevens and his clipboard dark magic may find a way to make it work offensively, though.

The Celtics have long been fans of Okafor, and his post scoring could be something they lean on in a second unit that’s limited on the offensive end. He still needs to improve his awareness as a passer and get better at reading defensive pressure in the post, but Boston is one of the few places where he has a clear role — or at least has an opportunity to get one.

A solid team with good cultural dynamics and a high-level coaching staff is what Okafor needs. Boston has been invested in getting him before, and could end up being a good spot for him on the basis of that commitment alone.