The Boston Celtics have been active in trade conversations as the NBA deadline approaches, and a new name has entered the mix: Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall.
According to recent reports, the Celtics have joined the Knicks and Pistons in expressing interest in Marshall, who’s enjoying a career-best season in Dallas. The 6'6" wing is averaging 14.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, while shooting an efficient 53.8% from the field - all personal highs.
He’s carved out a significant role in the Mavericks’ rotation, and Dallas knows exactly what they have. They’re not looking to move him unless the return is worth it, reportedly setting the asking price at a first-round pick.
That’s a steep price tag, especially for a Celtics team that already boasts one of the deepest wing rotations in the league.
Let’s be clear - Marshall’s having a strong year. He brings energy, toughness, and defensive versatility, and he’s proven he can score inside the arc.
But his three-point shot remains a question mark. He’s hitting just 30.4% from deep this season, right in line with his career average.
And in Boston, where floor spacing is at a premium and shooting is often the difference between a playoff rotation spot and a seat on the bench, that matters.
The Celtics have been dominant this season, and their roster is already built to contend. So if they’re going to part with a future first-rounder, it’s likely going to be for a more glaring need - like adding depth at the center position. That’s the one area where they could use a little more security heading into a long postseason run.
On the wings, Boston is loaded. Sam Hauser has been a reliable sharpshooter.
Jordan Walsh and Baylor Scheierman have shown flashes. Hugo Gonzalez and Josh Minott have both stepped in and contributed when called upon.
The challenge isn’t finding talent - it’s finding minutes. Adding Marshall to that mix without sending someone out would only create more of a logjam.
Then there’s the financial side. Both the Mavericks and Celtics are operating above the first tax apron, which limits flexibility.
Neither team can take back more salary than they send out, making a straight-up deal tough to structure. A third team might need to get involved to absorb salary and make the math work.
And that’s before even considering whether Boston is willing to meet Dallas’ high asking price.
Bottom line: while Marshall is an intriguing player, he doesn’t check enough boxes to justify a significant asset like a first-round pick - not for this Celtics team, not right now. If Brad Stevens and the front office do make a move, it’s more likely to be a strategic play for a backup center, someone who can give them reliable minutes behind their starters and help weather the grind of a deep playoff run.
Boston’s interest in Marshall is real, but unless the price drops or a larger deal takes shape, this feels more like due diligence than a move that’s about to materialize.