Boston Celtics Rumors: Gordon Hayward trade update, new Lakers star wanted Boston move and more

Following a disappointing 2018-19 season, the Boston Celtics were among the NBA's busiest teams this summer. The Celtics lost notable names such as Kyrie Irving and Al Horford, although the front office responded by completing moves for Kemba Walker and Enes Kanter.

Boston still trail its Eastern Conference rivals such as the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers, although the current roster possesses plenty of talent, and further moves could be made in the coming weeks. So, as we approach the 2019-20 NBA season, here are all the latest Boston Celtics rumors you need to know.

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Jaylen Brown could leave in Free Agency

Jaylen Brown has developed into one of the NBA's brightest young talents

The Celtics are believed to be in discussions to extend Jaylen Brown's contract ahead of his restricted free agency next summer. However, with the 2020 free agency lacking significant names, Brown is expected to attract enormous offers from rival teams. And, according to NBC Sports, Boston may lose Brown due to their desire to keep Jayson Tatum while also attracting a second-star:

With a big payday looming further out for 2017 draftee Jayson Tatum, the Celtics have to be diligent in the money they commit moving forward, particularly if they desire to be players in the summer of 2021 when they could potentially hunt another star before committing big money to Tatum.

Brown has been in and out of Brad Stevens' starting lineup since being drafted by the Celtics back in 2016, although the shooting guard has demonstrated enough talent to suggest that he could become a future All-Star. Brown was also particularly impressive during the 2018 postseason as he averaged 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists during Boston's run to the Eastern Conference Finals.

A Gordon Hayward trade remains possible

Gordon Hayward has two-years remaining on his Boston Celtics deal

After signing a $128 million four-year contract with the Celtics back in 2017, Gordon Hayward's first season in Boston was lost to a fractured tibia and dislocated ankle. The 29-year-old returned in time for the start of the 18-19 season, although a lack of form resulted in Hayward slipping to the bench.

After failing to reach expectations in Boston, Hayward has faced constant speculation over his future, and Hunter Felt of Forbes believes the franchise will explore a trade.

They could very well be hoping for Hayward to play at a high enough level that they could conceivably trade him... Even if he’s helping the team with his production, it still might make more sense economically to try to move him.

Hayward has worked hard over the summer to get in better shape for the upcoming campaign, and the Miami Heat are among the teams that could take a risk on the former All-Star.

Jared Dudley was interested in signing for Boston before heading to Los Angeles

Jared Dudley moved to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this summer

Jared Dudley impressed for the Brooklyn Nets last season, although the veteran was let go after the Nets added the All-Star duo of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant.

After testing the free-agent market, Dudley signed a one-year, $2.6 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, although Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe reports that Dudley was keen on a move to Boston.

Dudley was interested in playing for the Celtics, but Boston refrained because it had enough wings and wanted to save its remaining roster spot.

During the 18-19 season, Dudley made 59 appearances (25 starts) for the Nets, averaging 4.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. While not striking numbers, the 34-year-old's perimeter shooting would have been a boost for a Boston side short on wings.