As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, the Boston Celtics find themselves in a familiar position-contenders with a chance to fine-tune an already elite roster. While they’re not in desperate need of a shake-up, there’s a clear path if they want to bolster the frontcourt.
And one name that’s been floated as a potential fit? LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac.
Now, let’s be clear: there’s no indication yet that Zubac is officially on the trade block. But if the Celtics are looking to add a physical, reliable big man who can anchor the paint and clean the glass, Zubac checks a lot of boxes.
The Celtics have some movable pieces to work with-namely Anfernee Simons and Sam Hauser, whose contracts ($27.7 million and $10 million respectively) give Boston flexibility if they decide to make a move. Simons, in particular, could be a valuable trade chip given his expiring deal.
Zubac, 28, fits the Celtics’ timeline seamlessly. He’s right in the thick of his prime, and his skill set would complement Boston’s core of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. He’s not a flashy name, but he’s a highly effective one-exactly the type of player who can make a difference in a deep playoff run.
Last season, Zubac earned second-team All-Defense honors, a nod to the kind of interior presence he brings on a nightly basis. He’s a force on the boards, especially on the offensive glass, and he’s no slouch on the scoring end either.
Through 34 games this season, he’s averaging 14.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and a block per game while logging over 31 minutes a night. Those are sturdy, dependable numbers-exactly what you want from a rotational big in the postseason.
His recent outings show more of the same: 11 rebounds and 9 points against Charlotte on January 12, followed by a 17-point, 6-rebound performance versus Detroit on January 10. He’s not going to dominate the highlight reel, but he brings consistency, toughness, and a high basketball IQ to the floor.
Financially, Zubac’s deal is another reason he could be appealing to Boston. He’s making $18.1 million this season-more than $9 million less than Simons-and he’s under contract for two more years on a very manageable deal. That kind of cost control is rare for a starting-caliber center, especially one with his defensive pedigree.
Of course, there’s always a catch. If Zubac becomes available, the asking price likely won’t be cheap. The Clippers would almost certainly demand meaningful draft capital in return, and the Celtics would have to weigh whether the cost is worth it for a player who might be the final piece to an already well-constructed puzzle.
Zubac has been in the league since 2016, when he was selected 32nd overall by the Lakers. He’s played in 618 career games, averaging 10.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting an efficient 60.6% from the field. That kind of long-term consistency, paired with his defensive impact, makes him one of the more underrated bigs in the league.
If Boston decides to make a move, and if Zubac is indeed available, it’s easy to see why he’d be at the top of their list. He brings size, experience, and a defensive edge-all traits that could be crucial come playoff time. The Celtics don’t need to swing for the fences, but if they’re looking for a smart, impactful addition, Zubac might just be the right call.