The Boston Celtics’ season went about as anticipated, for the most part. Despite everything that went well for them in the 2023–24 season, they might have changed some of their strategies after all. Trading Dalano Banton to the Portland Trail Blazers is one option.
Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report outlined his reasons for considering the Celtics’ trade of Banton to be their “biggest regret.”
The transaction was more reasonable because it appeared to be intended to free up a roster place for a buyout acquisition. However, the actual reason the Celtics could want that decision reversed is Banton’s statistical explosion in Portland, Hughes said in a column published on April 16.
Hughes went on to discuss how Banton’s breakthrough performance suggested that Boston would have been able to use him in the postseason.
In 29.2 minutes a game with the Blazers, Banton—basically a 6’9′′ point guard with multi-position defence skills—averaged 16.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. Banton played in low-stakes games every minute he was in Portland, and he wasn’t exactly productive before the Celtics deadline. However, his performance following the trade raises the possibility that he may have contributed should Boston have lost a crucial guard or wing to injury during the postseason.
Banton didn’t show any indications that he would perform as well as he did when given the chance in Portland. Banton’s 2024–25 season option is with the team.
Joe Mazzulla Praises Dalano Banton’s Progress
Prior to the Celtics’ April 7 game against the Trail Blazers, Mazzulla gave Banton’s performance in Portland high marks.
Mazzulla also clarified why he preferred playing for the Trail Blazers over the Celtics.
According to Celtics on CLNS’ X account, Mazzulla remarked, “He did a great job, but the thing about the NBA is the situation and the opportunity that you get.” He fulfilled his responsibilities and made the most of the opportunities that were presented to him for us here, but he is also taking advantage of even greater prospects elsewhere. I’m pleased for him and think he has a strong work ethic.
Banton’s minutes more than tripled when he got to Portland. With the Celtics, he played 7.1 minutes a game; with the Trail Blazers, he played 29.2 minutes. With his expanded position on the Trail Blazers, he averaged 16.7 points, easily setting a career high for him.
Dalano Banton Reflects on Time With Celtics
Banton played 24 games in total for the Celtics before they traded him. Despite the trade, Banton made it clear that he held nothing against the Celtics.
According to CLNS Media’s YouTube channel, Banton told reporters, “I wasn’t bummed, man.” “It’s the NBA, it’s the business side of things, and all you have to do is persevere through every challenge that arises.” As players, we are aware of how it is. Thus, there’s never a reason to be unhappy about it. It was a fantastic organisation and a fantastic opportunity. Best wishes to them.
A young guy like Banton probably would not have had the same opportunities with the Trail Blazers as he did on a rival team like the Celtics. The Celtics included newcomers like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in addition to players they already knew.
