Dalano Banton, a former Celtic, has been dominating since his trade to the Trail Blazers.
Before the trade deadline, the Celtics and 76ers startled many by agreeing to a deal that transferred guard prospect Jaden Springer between the rivals in the middle of his rookie contract, effectively dumping salary. While Springer’s arrival, which brought defensive promise and youth, received the majority of the headlines last month, Boston discreetly made a corresponding move to maintain roster flexibility and save tax money, dealing Dalano Banton to Portland for a second-round pick (almost certainly not conveyed).
“I wasn’t bummed,” Banton told CLNS Media/CelticsBlog on Wednesday, before his Blazers met the Hawks. “It is the NBA. It’s the business end of things. You must be able to overcome obstacles that arise. We know how it works as players, so there’s no reason to be disappointed… it was a fantastic opportunity (in Boston) and an excellent organization. Best wishes to everyone, and I appreciate their assistance in preparing for my chance here.”
Banton began and delivered one of his most dominant outings as a professional in a loss to the Hawks. He scored 31 points in 37 minutes, shooting 13-for-23 and making five three-pointers in 11 attempts, while also grabbing five boards, nine assists, and two steals. In twenty-two games with Portland, he has averaged 15.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists while shooting 43.2% from the field and 36.2% from three.
Numerous Blazers injuries, notably that of former Celtic Malcolm Brogdon, allowed Banton full freedom at the point guard position. An evident factor in his large numbers. Between Boston and Portland, he raised his minutes by 20 per game, took 11.3 more shots per night, and unloaded over five threes after averaging 0.7 with the Celtics.
“He’s always been talented,” Derrick White stated on Thursday. “A versatile scorer. He’s having a chance to demonstrate that for everyone else. It’s great to see him out there, being aggressive, and demonstrating his abilities to the world. The NBA is challenging in terms of where you are, your function, and your opportunities. He was always working hard and was prepared for it.”
