NBA Trade Rumors: 3 potential trade destinations for Terry Rozier

Terry Rozier is approaching a point in his career where he wants to be playing big minutes, while also being on the court for the closing moments of tight games. Despite this, Rozier's path to an important role on the Celtics team is seemingly blocked by Kyrie Irving, who is just two years older than Rozier, and will most likely sign a new five-year max deal with the team this summer.

Rozier has averaged just 23.2 minutes-per-game this season, and Ben Simmons from The Ringer has reported Rozier's unhappiness at his current situation:

Unexpected early-season Celts subplot: Terry Rozier (restricted FA next summer) has been unhappy with his his playing time all season, word has gotten around the league, and everyone now knows the Celtics need to trade him... which, of course, makes it harder to trade him.

Despite the suggestion that Rozier would be tough to trade, a number of teams will be interested in acquiring a player that impressed during the 2018 postseason, so here are three teams that could make a move for the 24-year-old.

#3 Chicago Bulls

Coming into the 18/19 NBA season, the Chicago Bulls expected Kris Dunn to be their starting point guard. Despite this, Dunn has missed a lot of the season through injury, and doubts still remain over his ability to lead a Bulls team that is aiming to be playoff contenders in the near future.

Dunn and Terry Rozier are both 24, although, at this point in their careers, Rozier looks like the better player. Rozier is stronger than Dunn on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court, and the Celtics man has also demonstrated his ability to deliver in the big games. The Bulls have the assets to get a deal done, so the Chicago team has no excuses when it comes to making a move for Rozier.

#2 Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder v Charlotte Hornets

The Oklahoma City Thunder already have two starting caliber point-guards, although Dennis Schroder's future in Oklahoma City remains in doubt. The 25-year-old has struggled when playing alongside Russell Westbrook, and the Thunder only acquired the former Hawks man due to their desire to rid themselves of Carmelo Anthony's contract. Schroder himself is only half-way through a four-year, $70 million contract extension he signed with the Hawks, and the Thunder could be keen to replace him with a cheaper option.

While Rozier would play back-up to Westbrook, Billy Donovan would give the point guard close to 30 minutes a night and the opportunity to be on the court during the late stages of close games. Last month, Rozier caused a stir by declaring Westbrook as the NBA's best point guard, and if the Thunder can pull off an unlikely deal, the 24-year-old would be a great fit in Oklahoma City.

#1 San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs are currently in desperate need of a starting caliber point guard. Dejounte Murray is out for the rest of the season due to a serious knee injury, while Tony Parker left the franchise this summer, as he made the surprise decision to join the Charlotte Hornets.

Gregg Popovich has previously ruled out making a move for a replacement point guard, although his Spurs team are currently struggling with a 17-15 record, and adding Rozier could be a crucial factor in the Spurs reaching the 2019 postseason.

Rozier would instantly become the Spurs' starting point guard, and during his brief tenure as the Celtics starting guard, he impressed immensely. Last year in the playoffs, Rozier replaced the injured Kyrie Irving in the starting five and went on to average 16.5 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds. Ultimately, Rozier will be available for very little, and the Spurs would benefit greatly from trading for the 24-year-old.

Edited by Gabby Duran