A recent trade proposal has sparked considerable discussion among NBA fans, suggesting a major roster reshuffle involving the Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and Charlotte Hornets. The hypothetical three-team deal would see the Celtics acquire De’Aaron Fox and Brandon Miller, while sending veteran forward Paul George to the Spurs. This scenario was shared on a Fanspo forum, highlighting the potential for significant changes as teams prepare for the 2026 offseason.
In this proposed trade, the Celtics would also part ways with Payton Pritchard, a former NBA Sixth Man of the Year, and sharpshooter Sam Hauser, both of whom would join Miller’s team, the Charlotte Hornets. This deal represents a strategic move for Boston, which is looking to revamp its roster by injecting youth and talent into the lineup.
De’Aaron Fox, a two-time All-Star out of the University of Kentucky, recently signed a lucrative four-year maximum extension worth approximately $222 million. This contract kicks off with a salary of $49.4 million for the current season. Fox was instrumental in leading the Spurs to the NBA Finals in 2026, although an ankle injury hindered his performance during the championship run. His addition to the Celtics would provide a dynamic presence at point guard.
Brandon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has been making a name for himself with impressive statistics, averaging 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in his third season. After undergoing shoulder surgery in May, he is expected to return for training camp and is poised to be a key offensive player for Charlotte unless he is traded. His potential move to Boston would further bolster the Celtics' scoring options.
On the other hand, Paul George, now 36 years old, has had a storied career as a nine-time All-Star, consistently averaging over 20 points per game. Since entering the league in 2010, he has played for several teams, including the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers, and most recently, the Philadelphia 76ers. George waived a $3.9 million trade bonus upon joining the Celtics in July, which keeps his cap hit at $54.1 million with a player option of $56.6 million looming ahead.
The proposed trade could be seen as a shift in strategy for the Celtics, who previously traded Jaylen Brown for George. By swapping the aging George for the younger Fox and Miller, Boston would be investing in a more sustainable future. This trade would also cost the Celtics three first-round picks and two rotation players, leaving them hard-capped at the first apron, as per the trade proposal.
For the Spurs, trading Fox could be a calculated risk. After reaching the Finals with him as a key player alongside Victor Wembanyama, this move would allow the Spurs to focus on developing younger talent while adding a seasoned player like George. If George can stay healthy, he could provide valuable experience and mentorship to the Spurs' young roster.
The Charlotte Hornets would emerge with a significant haul from this trade, acquiring three first-round picks and two solid veterans in Hauser and Pritchard. However, this would come at the cost of losing Miller, their best player. General manager Jeff Peterson appears to be prioritizing future assets and development over immediate wins, especially after previous trades that stripped the roster of key players like LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges.
While the feasibility of this three-team trade remains to be seen, the proposal demonstrates the evolving landscape of the NBA as teams seek to balance immediate competitive needs with long-term growth strategies.
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