Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown (7) defends New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson as Kristaps Porzingis watches during the first half of Game 6 (Image via AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) The Boston Celtics could be gearing up for a significant roster shift this offseason. With a glaring need at the center position and uncertainty surrounding their current options, the Celtics are reportedly eyeing a trade that would bring in Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler while parting ways with guard Anfernee Simons.
Boston Celtics’ Center Problem
The Boston Celtics are entering next season with major questions at the center spot. • Al Horford, who played a critical veteran role in the frontcourt, is expected to join the Golden State Warriors. • Kristaps Porziņģis is no longer part of the team, leaving Boston without a reliable big man.This has opened up a pressing need for a defensive anchor who can complement the guard-heavy rotation and provide long-term stability.
Proposed Trade Breakdown
Walker Kessler (Image via NBA)
Nathaniel Holloway of Athlon Sports suggested a potential solution, predicting a swap that sends Anfernee Simons to Utah in exchange for Walker Kessler and Jusuf Nurkić.
Trade Details
TeamIncoming PlayersOutgoing Players Boston Celtics Walker Kessler, Jusuf Nurkić Anfernee Simons Utah Jazz Anfernee Simons Walker Kessler, Jusuf NurkićHolloway emphasized the benefits for Boston, stating, “For the Celtics, adding (Walker) Kessler gives them a major upgrade at the center position while also giving them a young player who could play a key role in the future.”
Why Walker Kessler Fits Boston
Walker Kessler, standing seven feet tall, has quickly earned a reputation as one of the league’s best rim protectors.
Anfernee Simons (Image via Getty)
• 2023-24 season stats: • 11.1 points per game • 12.2 rebounds per game • 2.4 blocks per game • 66.3% field goal shootingWhat makes Kessler particularly appealing to Boston is his willingness to play a role without demanding offensive touches. His efficiency stems from knowing when to pick his spots, resulting in elite shooting splits for a center.
The Utah Jazz Perspective
For Utah, moving Kessler could align with their plans to focus on rookie Kyle Filipowski, a big man with strong shooting ability who may better fit the team’s long-term offensive vision. Adding Simons, a $100 million guard, would give the Jazz a dynamic scorer in the backcourt to pair with their young core.
How This Impacts Boston’s Backcourt
Trading Simons would not leave Boston vulnerable at the guard position. With Payton Pritchard and Derrick White leading the backcourt, the Boston Celtics would still maintain a reliable rotation while shoring up their weakness at center.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Predicted to Cut Ties With $5.7 Million Amid Ongoing Injuries
Draft Capital Considerations
While the proposed trade looks fair on paper, Boston may need to sweeten the deal with draft picks. Given Kessler’s youth and potential, the Jazz will likely demand additional assets before agreeing to move him.