Anthony Davis Trade Rumors: Celtics Suitors If Pelicans Put Star on Block

The Boston Celtics could emerge as top contenders to land New Orleans Pelicans power forward Anthony Davis if his partnership with DeMarcus Cousins doesn't work out.

On Monday, Chris Mannix of The Vertical reported "rival executives" noted the Celtics are keeping a close eye on the situation in New Orleans and will make a "strong run" at a blockbuster deal for Davis if he becomes available via trade.

While there are numerous variables in play, most notably the Pelicans failing to succeed with their star frontcourt tandem, Davis could be the missing piece in Boston.

The Celtics added longtime Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward and top draft prospect Jayson Tatum from Duke to a roster that was already headlined by Isaiah Thomas and Al Horford.

While those arrivals should ensure the Celts remain among the league's elite, it may not be enough to truly contend for a championship in the superteam era. The Golden State Warriors' quartet of superstars is still at least a step ahead of the pack.

Davis is a legitimate difference-maker, though. He averaged 28.0 points, 11.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks while shooting 50.5 percent from the field last season. He ranked fourth in the NBA in Player Efficiency Rating.

In February, the 24-year-old University of Kentucky standout said he was focused on putting the "franchise back on the map," per Marc Stein of ESPN.com.

"Look, I'm here," Davis said. "If I was thinking about leaving, I'd never re-sign [last summer]. I'm here to stay,"

Ultimately, Davis' status as one of the league's most efficient players and the fact he's under contract through the 2020-2021 season make a trade unlikely. But it sounds like the Celtics are watching the situation closely just in case the opportunity arises to make another massive addition.