Celtics' Malcolm Brogdon Reportedly 'At the Center' of Clippers' Trade Talks

How will the Celtics pivot if trying to trade Malcolm Brogdon in hopes of landing Jrue Holiday fails?

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While the Los Angeles Clippers re-signed Russell Westbrook this offseason, they've continued searching for a big guard throughout the summer.

They're James Harden's preferred destination, but much like with the Houston Rockets, the Clippers are only lukewarm about such a scenario. Los Angeles doesn't seem interested in parting with Terance Mann in such a deal, limiting its offer to a return Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey is unwilling to accept.

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But with the Portland Trail Blazers intent on quickly rerouting Jrue Holiday for more assets to expedite their rebuild in the post-Damian Lillard era, perhaps a three-team trade sending Holiday to Philadelphia, where his NBA career started, and Harden to his desired landing spot, is how these matters get resolved.

However, if Holiday ends up elsewhere, but not in Boston, and Harden still isn't bound for Los Angeles, Malcolm Brogdon could become a Clipper after all.

That was on the verge of happening earlier this summer before Los Angeles backed out over concerns about the reigning Sixth Man of the Year's forearm strain.

But according to Jared Weiss of The Athletic, LA's continued to engage in conversations centering around acquiring the former Virginia Cavalier throughout the offseason.

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The Clippers would presumably prefer to secure Holiday's services. But if that doesn't happen and the bridge between Boston and Brogdon's burned after further attempts to trade him, there could be a deal here, especially if a third team is brought into the mix to satisfy what the Celtics would want in exchange better than Los Angeles can.

However, if Boston can't find a trade partner who will give up a first-round pick to acquire Brogdon, allowing Brad Stevens to boost the trade package he's offering the Trail Blazers for Holiday, the Celtics' best move is likely trusting the seven-year veteran to remain professional despite his frustrations and lack of trust in the organization. His nickname, "The President," is a testament to why that seems like a sound bet.

Further Reading

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