Boston Celtics trade rumors 2016: Coach Brad Stevens paying less attention to rumors

Brad StevensReuters

The Boston Celtics, despite contending in the Eastern Conference, are prone to trade talks and rumors this season, but head coach Brad Stevens is not focused on the matter. 

"We're just all listening and laughing and trying to figure out what's real and what's not, but not putting a lot of a stock into it until somebody knocks on our door," Stevens said Wednesday before playing against the Detroit Pistons, according to NESN.com

Stevens added that during his first year as a head coach, he was following every rumor, but now, he is not aware of any trade talks circulating about the team. 

The 39-year-old head coach is currently in his third year with Boston and last season, his efforts received praises as he guided the team to the playoffs, which was a surprise to many. 

This season, the Celtics are currently the fourth best team in the East having a 29–22 record, tied with the third-placed Atlanta Hawks. 

The most recent trade rumors regarding the C's was a reported interest in Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard. 

According to the New York Daily News, the Celtics had talks with Houston about Howard, who is also a frequent name in the trade rumor mill. 

The Celtics may not be a championship team as of the moment, but they have budding young pieces who can be franchise players and superstars in the near future. 

Point guard Isaiah Thomas is already making waves not only leading Boston in scoring and assists this season, but was also selected by coaches in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a reserve for the East in the upcoming 2016 All-Star Game. 

The Celtics have won seven of their past eight games including two straight, which will be on the line when they hit the road on Friday, taking on the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers (35–13).