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Per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Boston Celtics will attempt to acquire Anthony Davis. This is regardless of whether or not Kyrie Irving remains with the team for the long term.
Danny Ainge has encouraged the Pelicans to wait until the offseason to negotiate with the Celtics. Boston remains determined to try and partner Anthony Davis with Kyrie Irving for long-term, but plans to pursue AD regardless of Irving's free agency plans, per sources. https://t.co/Ft8rfe9EBZ
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 5, 2019
The hold-up with the Celtics trying to acquire Davis is their contract. Both Davis and Irving were extended by the Rose Rule provision. Instead of the extension being a 25 percent increase, the team with their bird rights could extend them by a 30 percent increase. Derrick Rose first received this rookie extension, hence its moniker.
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Since both Davis and Irving are both under Rose Rule extension, they cannot be on the same team under that extension. Irving would have to sign an extension or new contract with the Celtics or Davis with the Pelicans.
The most recent rumors in the Davis trade saga have been quite clear. Pelicans general manager Dell Demps will not trade Davis for anything but an amazing offer.
After the Lakers low-balled him by hardly offering anything, the Lakers sent in their offer. Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram, Michael Beasley, Lance Stephenson, and two first-round picks. Though this offer starts conversations, ultimately the Pelicans know they can get more for Davis in a blockbuster deal.
In reality, the Celtics have the best assets out of any team in the NBA. An offer around Jaylen Brown, Terry Rozier, Jayson Tatum and draft pick(s) is the best offer on the table. If the Pelicans are willing to wait, they could get a fantastic return from Danny Ainge and the Celtics.
