Veteran big-man Enes Kanter is heading back to the Portland Trail Blazers in a three-team trade that involves the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies, via ESPN.
The Grizzlies are receiving Mario Hezonja and the draft rights to the 30th pick in Wednesday’s draft, Desmond Bane.
The Celtics are receiving a future draft pick from the Grizzlies.
Kanter returns to Portland for the first time since 2018-2019.
In 23 games with the Trail Blazers, Kanter averaged 13.1 points and 8.6 rebounds whilst flashing some respectable interior defense.
Kanter never quite found his footing with the Celtics due to issues switching on the defensive pick and roll.
But the big man was a huge cheerleader for Boston on and off the court.
What a blessing to play for an organization like the @celtics ☘️
This team, this organization, the whole state made me a more complete player and a better person on & off the court.Don’t forget to retire #11 😄
Thank you Boston 💚 pic.twitter.com/8U59LXAFA2
— Enes Kanter (@EnesKanter) November 20, 2020
Now Kanter will have a chance to play on a consistent basis again behind Trail Blazers starting center Jusuf Nurkic.
As a result of the trade, the Celtics will have the opportunity to offer a new mid-level exception.