:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64599780/usa_today_12264747.0.jpg)
With less than three hours to go before the 6 p.m. start of free agency, Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the Nets and Celtics are working on a three-way sign-and-trade that would yield the Nets “at least a first pick” as well as Kyrie Irving.
Sources: Boston's showing interest in a 3-team sign-and-trade w/ Kyrie Irving (Nets), Kemba Walker (Celtics) and Terry Rozier (Hornets). Boston wants to create a full MLE and would likely need to surrender at least a first-round pick to Nets. So far, talks are exploratory.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2019
Boston has two first round picks in 2020, their own and the Grizzlies top six protected. They also have all their firsts going forward through 2026. The Nets might prefer the Boston pick since Memphis is starting a deep rebuild. That pick would become unprotected in 2021.
The other advantage for the Nets —and Irving— would be that Boston could sign the 27-year-old to a five-year deal then trade him to Brooklyn. Rozier would also be eligible for a fifth year in Charlotte.
The Celtics would get something in return for Irving, the MLE.
Meanwhile, numerous reporters are suggesting that D’Angelo Russell is going to sign with Minnesota as long as the Timberwolves can somehow clear enough space for him. That too could involve a sign-and-trade.
S&T’s are difficult to arrange under the CBA and none have been executed since 2017.