The Boston Celtics may be eyeing some frontcourt reinforcements ahead of the trade deadline, and one name that's reportedly on their radar: Yves Missi, the New Orleans Pelicans' young center.
According to a recent report, Boston is among several teams showing “significant trade interest” in Missi. While it’s always possible this is just routine due diligence from the Celtics’ front office, there’s real reason to believe Missi could be a fit-and worth pursuing.
Let’s break down why.
Missi, standing at 6-foot-11, brings the kind of interior presence that can change the dynamic of a rotation. He’s already established himself as a legitimate rim protector, averaging 1.4 blocks per game this season despite playing significantly fewer minutes than he did during his rookie campaign. That’s a notable uptick in shot-blocking efficiency, especially considering his minutes have dropped by about seven per game compared to last year.
On the glass, Missi continues to make his presence felt. He averaged 8.2 rebounds per game as a rookie, including a strong 3.5 offensive boards per night.
This year, he’s pulling down nearly six rebounds in just 19.2 minutes per game-and still managing to generate three second-chance opportunities per outing. That kind of hustle on the offensive glass is something every contender covets, especially come playoff time when possessions are at a premium.
Offensively, Missi isn’t lighting up the scoreboard-he averaged 9.1 points last season and is at 5.8 this year-but his game is built around efficiency and effort near the rim. He’s not a floor-spacer, but he’s a reliable finisher around the basket and doesn’t need touches to make an impact. For a team like Boston, which already has a loaded offensive core, that kind of low-maintenance, high-energy big could slot in seamlessly.
So, what’s the price tag?
Reports suggest the Pelicans are looking for a first-round pick in return. That’s not surprising-Missi was the 21st overall pick just last year, and New Orleans has every reason to start negotiations high. Whether they stick to that asking price remains to be seen, but it sets the tone for what a team like Boston might have to weigh.
The Celtics have options. They could try to negotiate with second-round picks, though with multiple teams reportedly in the mix for Missi, that might not be enough.
Another possibility? Including last year’s first-round pick, Baylor Scheierman, in a potential deal.
That’s where things get interesting.
Scheierman has shown real growth in Year 1, particularly on the defensive end. He’s transformed into a trusted wing defender thanks to his physical development, high motor, and smart positioning.
He’s already been tasked with guarding some of the league’s elite-Tyrese Maxey, Kevin Durant, Victor Wembanyama, Cade Cunningham-and has held his own in high-leverage moments. That kind of defensive versatility is rare for a rookie, and it speaks volumes about the Celtics’ trust in him.
Offensively, Scheierman brings a solid mix of shooting, secondary playmaking, and rebounding. He’s not just a 3-and-D guy-he’s a connector who can handle the ball and make the right reads. That all-around skill set makes him a valuable piece, and it’s fair to wonder whether Boston would part with him unless it’s part of a bigger swing.
With the trade deadline looming on February 5, the Celtics don’t seem like a team desperate to make a move. They’re sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference, and their core is humming. But adding a player like Missi-on a rookie deal, with upside, and a skill set that complements their stars-has real appeal.
Whether Boston is willing to meet New Orleans’ asking price is the big question. But if the Pelicans are open to negotiation, and if the Celtics see Missi as a long-term piece rather than just deadline insurance, this is a deal that could make a lot of sense for both sides.
Keep an eye on this one.