Report: NBA executives see Kemba Walker as negative asset, think Celtics would need to attach picks to move him

The Boston Celtics have several roster questions to deal with after a disappointing first-round exit in the 2021 NBA postseason.

The front office could look into trading starting point guard Kemba Walker. However, trading him away may be easier said than done, according to many front office sources.

“Multiple front-office sources across the NBA told The Athletic this week they still view Walker as having negative trade value should the team decide to go that route this offseason,” wrote Jared Weiss. “That likely means a trade would cost the Celtics extra picks or assets to offload, even if Walker is universally admired for his relentlessly positive attitude and hard work through injury.”

Boston acquired Walker back in 2019. He was solid in his first season with the team. In the 2019-20 season, he averaged 20.4 points and 4.8 assists and was voted to the All-Star Game.

This season, the veteran guard posted similar numbers.

Unfortunately, his Celtics tenure has been beset by various injuries. He missed serious time the past two seasons. He was also unable to play in Games 4 and 5 of the first-round series against the Brooklyn Nets.