Celtics Consider Trade for Center Amid Roster Changes

Boston, MA — The Boston Celtics are exploring trade options to strengthen their center position, currently held by Neemias Queta. Queta has risen to the starting role after serving two years as the team’s fourth-string center.

A recent trade proposal could provide a solution. The deal would send Anfernee Simons to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Daniel Gafford and a trade exception worth $27.7 million. The Mavericks would receive Simons and Haywood Highsmith, while the Brooklyn Nets would trade Klay Thompson, Dwight Powell, and several draft picks.

According to NBA analyst Pincus, acquiring Gafford would fill a significant gap in the Celtics’ lineup, particularly as they may not retain Simons long-term. The deal would also help Boston lower its tax threshold by approximately $1.2 million.

“Acquiring Gafford fills a significant hole at center,” Pincus noted. “He would give the Celtics a lob-threat on offense and serve as a rim deterrent.”

Boston’s decision-making will depend on its future direction. If the Celtics aim to replicate their 2024 championship success, they might seek a perimeter-oriented big man. However, if they pivot and value the effectiveness of a rim-runner, Gafford could be a perfect fit.

Co-stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have experience with considerable rim threats like Robert Williams, making Gafford’s integration seamless. Both players can leverage a more vertical offensive game.

While trading for Gafford is one consideration, the Celtics are also looking at other center options like Nic Claxton from the Brooklyn Nets and Nikola Vucevic from the Chicago Bulls, catering to different strategic needs.

As the Celtics make these evaluations, they continue to eye potential trades and see how various players fit into their long-term vision.