The Mavericks are contemplating an unexpected trade involving a former forward from the Celtics, as per reports.
A former Celtics forward may be in line for a trade just a few months after joining his current team. According to a report by veteran NBA insider Marc Stein on Substack, the Mavericks have engaged in preliminary discussions regarding a potential trade involving Grant Williams, the former Boston big man, and Bucks center Bobby Portis. Stein notes that it remains uncertain whether these discussions will progress to a more serious stage. The Bucks have been actively seeking bench upgrades, with Portis and swingman Pat Connaughton identified as potential trade assets.
In a sign-and-trade deal last July, the Celtics traded Williams to the Mavericks, acquiring two second-round picks and a traded player exception valued at just over $6 million. Williams secured a four-year contract exceeding $53 million as part of this transaction.
While Williams made an impactful start for the Mavericks in the initial month of the season, his playing time has dwindled in recent weeks. Currently averaging 8.1 points and 3.5 rebounds in 26.5 minutes per game, Williams has shown a 37.3 percent success rate in three-point shooting for the year, although this figure has dropped in recent months.
The Bucks have been previously linked to Williams in trade discussions, especially two years ago, suggesting ongoing interest in the versatile big man. While Milwaukee has limited movable trade assets, Portis stands out as a potential bargaining chip, contributing as a scoring option with an average of 12.6 points per game off the bench. Portis, earning $11.7 million this season, is under contract through the next year with a team option.
Williams could offer the Bucks a more adaptable defensive presence for a big man, particularly under the guidance of their new coach, Doc Rivers. However, it would be surprising to see Dallas part ways with Williams just eight months into his newly signed deal. A potential trade to Milwaukee could add an intriguing layer to a potential postseason series between the Celtics and Bucks.
