The Celtics Received Jones and a Future Pick
Boston acquired Perry Jones III, a 2019 second-round right and cash from Oklahoma City in July 2015. The Thunder received a separate second-round choice tied to the 2018 draft. Jones had once been an intriguing forward prospect, but his role in Oklahoma City had narrowed. Boston took the contract and additional draft compensation while deciding which young wings deserved roster spots. The structure emphasized future flexibility instead of a proven player swap.
Jones Did Not Become a Celtics Rotation Fixture
Although Jones had NBA experience with the Thunder, he did not establish a regular playing role in Boston after the transaction. The Celtics' main basketball return was therefore not his earlier scoring or defensive potential but the extra pick and resources accompanying him. That distinction keeps the evaluation grounded: a prospect can carry a recognizable name without generating substantial new-team production. Boston chose to move on from Jones rather than build its future rotation around him.
The Picks Later Acquired Different Draft Identities
Boston's 2019 second-round right was linked to No. 45 Isaiah Roby, while Oklahoma City's incoming 2018 choice was associated with No. 57 Kevin Hervey. The players' later rights transfers and professional paths must be followed before attributing any NBA appearances to the first team that held a selection. Both assets offered opportunities to develop or trade prospects rather than guaranteed starting-caliber performers. Boston also received cash, giving it another concrete component of the deal.
The Celtics Gained a Little More Flexibility
The inherited slight Boston edge values the future draft right and cash obtained in exchange for a later second, despite Jones's failure to contribute meaningfully on the court. Oklahoma City gained a different pick and room to manage its roster after releasing a former prospect from its plans. Neither side secured a franchise-changing player. The modest B- to C+ gap is better understood through the asset terms than through imagined contributions by Jones in a Celtics uniform.
Final Verdict
Slight Celtics Edge. Boston earns B- for taking Perry Jones III along with cash and the 2019 second-round right later associated with Isaiah Roby, although Jones didn't become a Celtics rotation player. Oklahoma City receives C+ for the 2018 choice linked to Kevin Hervey and roster flexibility. The result was chiefly a modest draft-and-financial gain for Boston.