ATLANTA — The Celtics and 76ers surprised many before the trade deadline by swinging a deal that sent guard prospect Jaden Springer between the rivals in the middle of his rookie contract in an effective salary dump. While Springer’s arrival — carrying defensive promise and youth — drew most of the coverage and attention last month, Boston quietly made a corresponding move to maintain roster flexibility and save tax money, trading Dalano Banton to Portland for a second-round pick (almost certain to not convey).
“I wasn’t bummed,” Banton told CLNS Media/CelticsBlog on Wednesday before his Blazers faced the Hawks.