Three Celtics Who Could Be Moved Before the Trade Deadline - And Why It Makes Sense
The Boston Celtics have outpaced expectations this season, sitting at 28-17 and holding the second seed in the Eastern Conference. But even with a solid record, there’s a sense that this version of the Celtics isn’t built for a deep playoff run - not without some help in the frontcourt. That’s where Brad Stevens and the front office come in, reportedly eyeing reinforcements ahead of the fast-approaching trade deadline on February 5.
The Celtics have been linked to several big men in recent weeks, and if they’re serious about shoring up their interior, it’s going to cost them some depth - and maybe a familiar face or two. Here are three players who could be on the move before the deadline, and why it might be the right time to make those calls.
1. Anfernee Simons, G
Anfernee Simons’ time in Boston always felt like it had an expiration date - not because of his talent, but because of the team’s financial strategy and roster makeup. After a cost-conscious offseason, it was clear the Celtics were trying to balance competitiveness with fiscal responsibility. Simons, in the final year of a four-year, $100 million deal, represents one of the team’s most valuable trade chips.
To his credit, Simons has turned in his best stretch of the season in January, averaging 16.1 points per game while knocking down a scorching 45.6% from three in just under 27 minutes per contest. That kind of offensive production is nothing to scoff at, especially for a team that’s leaned heavily on its perimeter attack.
But for all his scoring, Simons hasn’t rounded out his game in the way Boston needs. Defensively, he remains a target - opposing teams actively hunt mismatches when he’s on the floor. And with Joe Mazzulla leaning on the steady backcourt duo of Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, Simons has become more of a luxury than a necessity.
Given his contract status and the Celtics’ clear need for size, Simons could be the key to landing a quality big man - names like Ivica Zubac or Daniel Gafford have been floated. If Boston wants to make a serious postseason push, flipping Simons for frontcourt help could be the move that unlocks a more balanced roster.
2. Chris Boucher, PF/C
When Boston brought in Chris Boucher over the summer, the hope was that his length, floor spacing, and veteran savvy could help fill the void left by the departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet. On paper, it made sense. In practice, things never quite clicked.
Boucher struggled to carve out a role from the jump, and through eight appearances, he averaged just 2.3 points and 2.3 rebounds in 11.4 minutes a night. His shooting - especially from deep - has been rough, with an 8.3% clip from beyond the arc that’s derailed any hope of him being a stretch option off the bench.
Meanwhile, Neemias Queta has stepped up, and Luka Garza has earned backup minutes, effectively pushing Boucher out of the rotation. He hasn’t seen the floor since November 23, and at this point, it’s clear the Celtics have moved on internally.
While Boucher doesn’t carry much trade value on the court, moving him could still benefit Boston financially. Offloading his deal would save the team around $9 million in luxury tax - a meaningful number for a franchise trying to stay competitive without breaking the bank.
3. Xavier Tillman Sr., PF/C
Xavier Tillman Sr. is the kind of player coaches love - gritty, unselfish, and always ready to bring energy off the bench. But this season, that opportunity just hasn’t been there. Despite his memorable performance in Game 3 of the NBA Finals last year, Tillman’s role has diminished significantly.
Since November 30, he’s appeared in just five games. Overall, he’s logged 13 appearances this season, averaging 2.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in 8.5 minutes per game. His shooting from deep has been cold (21.4%), and with Queta and Garza now firmly in the rotation, Tillman’s path to minutes is essentially blocked.
That said, Tillman still holds some value. He’s on an expiring deal, and his toughness and playoff experience could appeal to teams looking to bolster their bench with a proven locker room presence. While he may not bring back a high-impact player, Boston could potentially get a serviceable piece in return - or at the very least, trim some salary.
The Bigger Picture
The Celtics are in a familiar spot: good enough to contend, but not quite complete. Their guard depth is solid, their wings are elite, and their coaching staff has a clear system in place. But the frontcourt remains a question mark - and in the playoffs, that kind of gap can be the difference between a second-round exit and a Finals run.
With the trade deadline looming, Boston has decisions to make. Simons, Boucher, and Tillman all bring something to the table, but none are untouchable. If the Celtics want to maximize this season’s potential, some tough calls - and smart moves - are coming.