The problem: The Clippers have turned a corner since their rough start, which might have initially opened the door to Zubac pursuits. The even bigger problem: Trying to find another big man worthy of a splurge is nearly impossible.
Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr. is intriguing but averages $52 million per year over the next three seasons, a prohibitive number for a team paying big money to superstars Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
The question then becomes whether the Celtics would be willing to move a key piece of their rotation — whether it be Anfernee Simons or Sam Hauser — to add a lower-tier big man who might not move the needle much beyond what Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have contributed.
… Ultimately, unless someone is willing to overpay for Simons, the best path forward might be to work on the fringes. If the Celtics were willing to take on some additional money, they might be able to utilize their TPEs to entice tax-straddling teams.
Stevens likes to think big with his moves, though.
We’d call the Magic about Wendell Carter Jr., if only because of the money crunch that Orlando will soon find itself under. (Goga Bitadze also is an intriguing depth option, otherwise, while you’re on the phone.)
We’d investigate all three-team deals that could bring Robert Williams III back to Boston, given Portland’s need to trim money to sign a couple two-way players and still finish below the tax. New Orleans’ Yves Missi is a bargain option with the Pelicans already prioritizing other young bigs.
I think Missi would be a great option, young, athletic, cheap contract, and would be worthy of giving up a pick.
We should be calling on Myles Turner.
Anyone think the media knows anything that Brad doesn’t know?
I’d still try to dump Simons to get under the tax for this year. I have too many doubts about his usefulness in the playoffs and one small guard is enough.
Small acquisition to help big man depth. Simons stays for now.
6 comments
From Chris Forsberg:
So, what kinds of deals make sense for the Celtics?
Rumors suggested the Celtics [made an offer for Clippers big man Ivica Zubac](https://www.hoopshype.com/story/sports/nba/2026/01/28/nba-intel-giannis-antetokounmpo-domantas-sabonis-lakers-celtics-knicks-hawks-bulls-cavaliers-timberw/88401592007/) earlier this season. He [fits the profile of a big worth man splurging on](https://www.nbcsportsboston.com/nba/boston-celtics/ivica-zubac-trade-rumors-contract-fit/760607/), given 1) His modest salary ($18.1 million this season), 2) His long-term presence (three years remaining on his contract), and 3) A play style that fits all of Boston’s needs as a defensive presence capable of gobbling up rebounds.
The problem: The Clippers have turned a corner since their rough start, which might have initially opened the door to Zubac pursuits. The even bigger problem: Trying to find another big man worthy of a splurge is nearly impossible.
Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr. is intriguing but averages $52 million per year over the next three seasons, a prohibitive number for a team paying big money to superstars Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
The question then becomes whether the Celtics would be willing to move a key piece of their rotation — whether it be Anfernee Simons or Sam Hauser — to add a lower-tier big man who might not move the needle much beyond what Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have contributed.
… Ultimately, unless someone is willing to overpay for Simons, the best path forward might be to work on the fringes. If the Celtics were willing to take on some additional money, they might be able to utilize their TPEs to entice tax-straddling teams.
Stevens likes to think big with his moves, though.
We’d call the Magic about Wendell Carter Jr., if only because of the money crunch that Orlando will soon find itself under. (Goga Bitadze also is an intriguing depth option, otherwise, while you’re on the phone.)
We’d investigate all three-team deals that could bring Robert Williams III back to Boston, given Portland’s need to trim money to sign a couple two-way players and still finish below the tax. New Orleans’ Yves Missi is a bargain option with the Pelicans already prioritizing other young bigs.
[Read more here.](https://www.nbcsportsboston.com/nba/boston-celtics/nba-trade-deadline-preview-rumors-anfernee-simons/764672/)
I think Missi would be a great option, young, athletic, cheap contract, and would be worthy of giving up a pick.
We should be calling on Myles Turner.
Anyone think the media knows anything that Brad doesn’t know?
I’d still try to dump Simons to get under the tax for this year. I have too many doubts about his usefulness in the playoffs and one small guard is enough.
Small acquisition to help big man depth. Simons stays for now.