Celtics express interest in trading for Jahlil Okafor; won’t sacrifice first-round pick

The Boston Celtics are arguably the best team in the Eastern Conference to start the 2017-18 NBA season with Kyrie Irving and company seemingly already figuring things out in somewhat of a transitional year.

Along with getting off to a good start to the season, the Celtics aren’t content as they continue to look for waves to bolster their roster. One move the Boston franchise is considering is trading for former Duke standout, Jahlil Okafor.

Apparently, the Celtics are interested but won’t be giving up a first-round draft pick for the former lottery pick, via Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe.

Philadelphia does not want to buy out his contract and then watch him sign with a conference rival with no compensation. The Celtics have long held interest in Okafor, but as more of a project than an immediate contributor. Boston is also not willing to part with a first-round pick for Okafor.

Okafor is currently in limbo in Philadelphia. The 76ers have made it clear they’re trying to part ways with Okafor, but have yet to find a trade that works out for them. The seven-footer can only sit in Philadelphia and await his fate which could be determined soon or both the NBA trade deadline unless an injury in the frontcourt alters the team’s way of thinking.

The Celtics would be an intriguing fit for Okafor as he may make the top team in the East that much better up front with Al Horford who is having a solid season thus far. Only time will tell how things pan out and whether Boston can get a deal done.