NBA Trade Deadline Buzz: Celtics Hold Firm, Wolves Stand Pat, Knicks Eye Leverage
As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, front offices across the league are working the phones. But for some of the top contenders - and a few hopeful risers - the message is clear: they’re not dealing just to deal. Let’s break down where things stand with the Celtics, Timberwolves, and Knicks as the rumor mill heats up.
Celtics: No Fire Sale in Boston
The Celtics are sending a strong message ahead of the deadline - they’re not shedding salary just to duck the luxury tax. According to league sources, Boston has no interest in attaching a first-round pick to Anfernee Simons’ $27.7 million expiring contract in a move purely aimed at cost-cutting. Translation: if Simons is moved, it’ll be because the return makes the team better, not because ownership wants to save a few bucks.
There’s been some exploratory chatter. The Bulls reportedly floated a framework involving Simons and a first-rounder for Nikola Vucevic, but Boston didn’t bite. That deal didn’t offer the kind of value the Celtics are looking for, especially when they’re already among the league’s elite and don’t need to force a move.
The Celtics also had conversations with the Clippers about a larger package - Simons, a first-round pick, and a pick swap for Ivica Zubac and some additional salary filler. That idea fizzled, partly because the Clippers have been rolling lately and aren’t eager to part with Zubac, who’s been a steady presence in their frontcourt.
Boston is still open to frontcourt upgrades, but they’re not desperate. Neemias Queta has stepped up in a starting role, showing he can hold his own, while Luka Garza has brought some stability off the bench. That internal depth gives the Celtics the luxury of being selective.
Names like Chris Boucher and Xavier Tillman have surfaced in exploratory talks, and teams like the Hawks, Sixers, and Suns have reportedly checked in on Boucher. But again, Boston’s approach is clear: they’re not giving up assets unless the return moves the needle.
Timberwolves: Listening, Not Selling
In Minnesota, the Timberwolves are fielding calls - but they’re not looking to break up the band.
Rival teams have inquired about Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, and Donte DiVincenzo. But according to reports, the Wolves value all three highly, and McDaniels is seen as borderline untouchable.
Reid and DiVincenzo? They’re only on the table if the return is an All-Star-level player.
That’s a big ask, but it reflects how Minnesota views its current core. The Wolves are in the thick of the Western Conference race, and they’re not looking to take a step back.
This is a team that believes in its identity - defense-first, tough, and versatile - and those three players are central to that formula. Unless something truly seismic comes along, don’t expect Minnesota to shake things up.
Knicks: A Valuable Chip in Hand
The Knicks, meanwhile, are positioning themselves for a potential move by putting one of their more intriguing assets on the table.
New York is open to using the Wizards’ top-eight protected 2026 first-round pick in trade discussions. Even though that pick could eventually convert into second-rounders if it doesn’t convey, league insiders still view it as meaningful.
Why? Because Washington’s rebuild isn’t exactly on the fast track, and there’s a good chance that pick ends up being a valuable piece of draft capital.
The Knicks have been aggressive in recent years, and this move signals they’re still looking for ways to level up. Whether that means chasing a high-level contributor or bolstering their depth remains to be seen, but they’ve got the flexibility - and the assets - to be players at the deadline.
Final Word
With the deadline approaching, teams like Boston and Minnesota are showing the value of patience and leverage. The Celtics won’t make a move unless it enhances their title odds.
The Timberwolves are protecting their core. And the Knicks?
They’re lurking, armed with draft capital and ready to strike if the right opportunity arises.
Stay tuned - the next few days could get interesting.