NBA Trade Rumors 2014 Update: Boston Celtics’ Rajon Rondo To Sacramento Kings?
In a rumored blockbuster deal, the Sacramento Kings are reportedly trying to put together an enticing trade package for Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo, a source close to situation reported on Sunday.
The Kings have already made two huge transactions early this season. One was done to acquire versatile power forward Derrick Williams from the Minnesota Timberwolves while the latest was to nab star player Rudy Gay from the Toronto Raptors.
But the Kings are apparently just getting started as they set their sights on one of the finest pass-first point guards in basketball - Rondo.
Trading for Rajon
According to a league source, the Kings are proposing a package that would send point guard Isaiah Thomas, shooting guard Ben McLemore, veteran swingman Marcus Thornton, power forward Jason Thompson and two future first-round picks to the Celtics in exchange for Rondo.
Rondo, who is currently rehabilitating from ACL surgery, is reportedly close to make his return on the floor, probably as early as January.
Celtics general manager Danny Ainge stressed several times that the Celtics don't have any intention of trading their franchise player. However, rumors have been buzzing that the Celtics front office might have a change of heart later on, especially if a trade offer is too enticing to turn down.
Bill Simmons' Trade Proposal
Celtics fan and ESPN NBA writer Bill Simmons already predicted the Kings will go after Rondo even before the start of the season.
According to the veteran writer, the Kings could have sent a package consists of John Salmons, Patrick Patterson, Jimmer Freddete, Greivis Vasquez and Ben McLemore to the Celtics in exchange for Gerald Wallace, MarShoon Brooks and Rondo.
"The Celtics give up Rondo, Gerald Wallace and MarShon Brooks in exchange for the expiring contracts of John Salmons, Patrick Patterson, Jimmer Fredette and Greivis Vasquez, as well as rookie Ben McLemore," Bill Simmons told via Bleacher Sports.
Of course, Patterson, Salmons and Vasquez were all traded to the Raptors as compensation for getting Gay. However, the Kings could still get Rondo--not because of the current assets on their roster, but for their precious draft picks.
For now, the Celtics look like they are taking a wait-and-see approach as Rondo makes his comeback in several weeks.