Celtics Trade Tristan Thompson in 3-Team Deal

Just three days after opting in on his $5 million dollar contract for the coming season, the Atlanta Hawks have traded point guard Kris Dunn and forward Bruno Fernando to the Boston Celtics in return for big man Tristan Thompson, who was then shipped from Atlanta to the Sacramento Kings for guard Delon Wright.

The Kings will send guard Delon Wright to Atlanta in the three-team trade, source tells ESPN . https://t.co/cNYL77jJ63

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 30, 2021

According to NBA insider Tim Bontemps, the move allows the Celtics to unload about $3 million in salary, giving them some extra cap space, and also creating a  $9 million exception. 

Expiring contracts for both players:

Kris Dunn (to BOS)- $5M
Bruno Fernando (to BOS)- $1.8M

Tristan Thompson (to ATL)- $9.7M

Celtics get $3M in additional breathing room below the luxury tax https://t.co/Rs8K3zwV40

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 30, 2021

Dunn missed almost the entire season with Atlanta due to an ankle injury, but the Celtics are looking to fill their backcourt options after dealing Kemba Walker to the Oklahoma City Thunder.  

The Kings had been desperate for some defense to add to the roster this offseason, and Thompson will fit the bill. He's averaged 9 PPG and nearly 9 rebounds per game in his 10-year career. 

Photo Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports