The NBA trade deadline this season was an exciting one, with plenty of big names being moved around. However, one trade that flew under the radar was the Boston Celtics acquiring Mike Muscala from the Oklahoma City Thunder. This may not have been a flashy trade, but it may just turn out to be a difference maker.
The Celtics traded Justin Jackson and two second-round picks for Muscala, who slots into the Dennis Schroder TPE of $5.89 Million, which was set to expire today after the 3 PM EST trade deadline. Muscala is a 6-11 big man who can stretch the floor, shooting .394 percent from the 3-point line on the season. This is an important skill for the Celtics, who need more floor spacing. Al Horford is an excellent 3-point shooter, currently shooting over 41 percent from deep, but he is also in his 16th season, and the Celtics want to cut down on his minutes at some point.
Another benefit of trading for Muscala is that he provides the Celtics with more flexibility in the frontcourt. Robert Williams has only played 20 games this season after missing 21 last season and 30 the year before, so having another big to put in the lineup in case of injury is a major plus.
Yes, there are trades with more prominent names that will get talked about a lot more. Still, for a championship-contending team like the Celtics, who already have the best record in the NBA, this deal could have a considerable impact, especially in the playoffs, where the need for floor spacing is at an all-time high. Remember this trade in May or June when out of nowhere, Muscala knocks down six 3s to help the Celtics win a playoff game.
This may not have been the most exciting trade of the season, but it could end up being one of the most important. Muscala provides the Celtics with a much-needed shooter, and in a league where floor spacing is becoming increasingly important, he could make a huge difference for the Celtics in the playoffs.
