The Boston Celtics have been one of the surprise stories of the season - not because they’re good, but because they’ve been this good without their biggest star.
We’re almost at the halfway mark, and the Celtics are sitting second in the Eastern Conference standings. That’s impressive on its own.
But it’s even more eye-opening when you remember they’ve done it without Jayson Tatum, who’s missed the entire season with a torn Achilles. What looked like a potentially lost year in Boston has turned into a legitimate opportunity - and the Celtics are clearly not looking to let it slip away.
Celtics Eyeing Jaren Jackson Jr. as Frontcourt Reinforcement
According to league sources, the Celtics have expressed interest in Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., the 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year. While Memphis hasn’t made Jackson available in trade talks - unlike Ja Morant, who’s reportedly been discussed - teams around the league are keeping close tabs, hoping the situation in Memphis might shift ahead of the February 5 trade deadline.
Boston’s interest in Jackson isn’t surprising. With Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis both recently departing, the Celtics have a clear need for help in the frontcourt. Jackson, a two-time All-Star, would bring elite rim protection, switchable defense, and a growing offensive game - the kind of two-way presence that could elevate Boston’s already formidable defense to another level.
The Grizzlies’ Dilemma: Retool or Rebuild?
Right now, the Grizzlies are signaling that Jackson is part of their long-term core. But as the trade deadline approaches and Morant’s name continues to float in conversations, rival teams are betting that Memphis might pivot toward a full rebuild. If that happens, Jackson could become a blockbuster trade chip - and a player like him would draw serious interest from contenders.
Make no mistake: landing Jackson wouldn’t be easy. He’s under contract for four more seasons, with a player option for 2029-30, and he’s owed over $200 million during that span. Any team looking to acquire him would have to be all-in - both in terms of assets and long-term financial commitment.
What It Means for Boston
For the Celtics, the calculus is clear. They’re in the thick of the playoff race without Tatum, and if he returns healthy down the stretch, this team could be dangerous. Adding a defensive anchor like Jackson would give them a legitimate shot at making a deep run in an Eastern Conference that feels more wide open than it has in years.
But unless Memphis has a change of heart, Boston might have to explore other options to shore up its frontcourt. Still, their interest in Jackson sends a strong message: the Celtics aren’t just trying to stay afloat without Tatum - they’re aiming to contend.