In a recent column, Chris Forsberg of NBC Sports Boston breaks down the two primary elements of the Celtics' status as a second apron squad that will impact their trade efforts th

With Dec. 15 having arrived last week -- the unofficial start of the league's trade season, with many deals signed in the summer becoming legal to trade -- fans of the Celtics are starting to get itchy for a deal to improve the roster.

The Boston Celtics have started out their NBA title defense very well with a 21-6 record through 27 games. Jayson Tatum is a legit MVP candidate. Jaylen Brown is playing fantastic after winning Finals MVP in June.

The Boston Celtics are pretty much an unstoppable team when healthy, but one core superstar rarely is; Kristaps Porzinigis. Matt Levine of Celtics on SI proposed a blockbuster three-team trade that would see the Celtics’ superstar center Kristaps Porzingis get moved,

As you would expect, these surprises have changed some of the narratives regarding Boston's biggest threats. It's hard to envision the Sixers being at a high enough level to test Joe Mazzulla's team over a seven-game series. On the other hand, the Cavaliers and the New York Knicks are worrisome prospects despite their dicey start.