Celtics Trade Deadline Outlook: Add a Big, Keep Simons, and Trust Brad’s Blueprint
With the NBA trade deadline just two weeks away, the Boston Celtics find themselves in a familiar spot: at the top of the standings, but still searching for the final piece-or maybe just the right tweak-that could push them over the top come playoff time. The front office chess match is entering its decisive phase, and while the Celtics have options, the general consensus is clear: bolster the frontcourt and hold onto the scoring punch that’s already in-house.
Let’s break it down.
The Big Man Priority
If there’s one thing nearly everyone agrees on, it’s this: Boston needs another center. Not necessarily a blockbuster name, but a reliable, playable big man who can hold his own in a playoff series.
Right now, the Celtics are leaning on Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, and small-ball lineups to cover non-Porzingis minutes. That’s a risky formula when the postseason hits and matchups get tighter.
Names like Ivica Zubac and Jaren Jackson Jr. are dream targets-impact players who would immediately raise Boston’s ceiling. But even if those aren’t realistic gets, there are more attainable options worth exploring. Guys like Marvin Bagley, Day’Ron Sharpe, or Isaiah Jackson could give the Celtics a much-needed boost in depth without breaking the bank or the roster.
The goal isn’t to find a star. It’s to find someone who can spell Porzingis and Horford without the defense falling apart.
A third big who can bang down low, rebound, and hold up for 10-15 minutes a night. That’s the missing piece in the rotation puzzle.
The Anfernee Simons Dilemma
Then there’s Anfernee Simons. His recent scoring bursts have reminded everyone just how valuable he can be as a microwave scorer off the bench. He’s not a perfect player-his defense still leaves something to be desired, and his contract is up at the end of the season-but he’s also been a key contributor during Jayson Tatum’s absence.
So what do you do?
Some argue that if the Celtics don’t believe they can re-sign Simons this summer, now’s the time to cash in on his value. Use him to land a piece that fits long-term, or at least fills a more pressing need.
But others see it differently. If Boston believes it has a real shot at a deep playoff run this year-and all signs point to yes-then keeping Simons might be the smarter play.
His ability to create offense in a half-court slog could swing a playoff game or two.
Unless a deal presents itself that clearly upgrades the roster now and in the future, the safe move might be no move at all when it comes to Simons.
Standing Pat Isn’t Standing Still
There’s also a strong case to be made that the Celtics are already in a good spot. They’re winning, they’ve weathered injuries, and they’ve done it without mortgaging the future or overextending the roster. Holding onto Simons, keeping their draft capital intact, and waiting to see what the buyout market brings might be the most prudent path forward.
Boston has the ability to sign buyout players who were previously off-limits due to salary restrictions, and their current standing should make them an attractive destination for any veteran looking to chase a ring. Think of last year’s Torrey Craig addition-low-risk, potentially high-reward.
Trust in Brad
At the end of the day, Brad Stevens has earned the benefit of the doubt. He’s shown a knack for finding value on the margins-whether it’s flipping second-round picks for rotation-ready vets or pulling off under-the-radar trades that pay off big. It’s fair to assume he’s been working multiple angles for months, weighing not just the immediate impact but the long-term implications of any move.
If Stevens decides to stand pat, it’s not because he’s asleep at the wheel. It’s because he believes in what this roster can do when healthy, especially with Tatum expected back soon. And if he does make a move, whether it’s for a backup big or something more ambitious, it’ll be because the value lined up with the vision.
Final Thoughts
The Celtics don’t need to swing for the fences. They need to find the right fit-a low-cost big who can shore up the rotation, a decision on Simons that balances the now with the next, and maybe a little luck on the buyout market.
They’re already one of the league’s best teams. The right move at the deadline could turn them into the team to beat.
And if that move is no move at all? Well, sometimes the best trades are the ones you don’t make.