Celtics Apparently Are Interested in Acquiring Free Agent Bill Walton

The Lakers were interested in obtaining Bill Walton from the Clippers a year ago, but never could put together a deal. They might be even more interested this summer if the alternative is finding the 32-year-old center standing squarely in the path of another NBA title.

That is a distinct possibility now as inquiries about Walton, a free agent, have come from the Boston Celtics, the Lakers’ opponent in the just-concluded NBA finals.

Celtic President Red Auerbach has reportedly contacted Clipper General Manager Carl Scheer about a possible trade of Walton for forward Cedric Maxwell. Boston would reportedly agree to pay half of Maxwell’s salary in exchange for a player or future draft pick.

There is a question about the 29-year-old Maxwell’s health. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in February and was ineffective in the playoffs.