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The Boston Celtics lost both Kyrie Irving and Al Horford in free agency, which was something that they didn't want to happen. But when it was apparent that both players were not re-signing, the Cs tried to convince their new teams to do sign-and-trades.
Unfortunately for Boston, the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers' asking price was too high.
The #Celtics tried to work out sign-and-trade deals with the #76ers and #Nets for Al Horford and Kyrie Irving, respectively but both teams wanted more draft pick compensation to the #Celtics' liking.
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) July 17, 2019
It is only reasonable for the Nets and the Sixers to raise their demands, especially considering the fact that Irving and Horford were free agents who chose to sign with both of them respectively. They didn't want to give the Celtics, one of their Eastern Conference rivals, a chance to gain assets that will help their playoff push or draft picks that will help them rebuild in the future.
Still, the Celtics tried to do everything that they can to lessen the impact of the blow caused by the departure of Kyrie and Big Al. Although they weren't able to convince the Nets and the Sixers to negotiate with them, they were able to rebound pretty well in free agency and trade acquisitions.
Boston was able to convince the Charlotte Hornets to do a sign-and-trade for Kemba Walker in exchange for Terry Rozier. They then acquired Enes Kanter, who chose not to return to the Portland Trail Blazers. Both players aren't as good as Irving and Horford, but they're decent enough to compensate for what the Celtics have lost.
Now, the Celtics will look for another deep playoff run next season.
