The Celtics’ standing as the top contender in the Eastern Conference received a significant challenge on Wednesday evening.
The Milwaukee Bucks — already considered Boston’s primary threat in the road back to the NBA Finals — bolstered their roster by way of a three-team trade involving the Trail Blazers and Suns, reportedly adding seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard in the blockbuster swap.
Lillard’s lights-out shooting and playmaking should further boost a stout Bucks roster anchored by two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. But the Bucks did need to subtract from their roster to facilitate the deal, headlined by veteran point guard Jrue Holiday and a bevy of draft picks.