Celtics Likely to Make Modest Moves at Trade Deadline

Boston's search for a big man has hit roadblocks, leading to a quieter approach.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:55pm

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The Boston Celtics have been actively pursuing trades to address their front court needs, but have so far been unable to find a deal that fits their wants and the market's demands. With their offer for Clippers center Ivica Zubac rejected and a blockbuster trade for a star player like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Jaren Jackson Jr. seeming unlikely, the Celtics are expected to make more modest moves at the trade deadline, potentially targeting players like Yves Missi or Daniel Gafford to provide frontcourt depth.

Why it matters

The Celtics have an obvious need for a big man to shore up their front court, but their assets and the current trade landscape have made it difficult to find the right deal. How they approach the deadline could impact their playoff positioning and championship aspirations this season.

The details

The Celtics offered a package centered around Anfernee Simons, a first-round pick, and a first-round swap for Clippers center Ivica Zubac, but that deal was rejected. With the Clippers surging back into playoff position, that pursuit appears to be over. The Celtics have also been linked to potential blockbuster deals for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaren Jackson Jr., but those types of swings seem unlikely. Instead, the Celtics are expected to target more modest upgrades like Pelicans big man Yves Missi or Bulls center Daniel Gafford to provide frontcourt depth.

  • The Celtics' offer for Ivica Zubac was rejected in recent weeks.
  • The Celtics are expected to make moves ahead of the February 9th trade deadline.

The players

Ivica Zubac

A center for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Anfernee Simons

A guard for the Boston Celtics who was included in their offer for Zubac.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A star forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who the Celtics have been linked to in trade rumors.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A young star big man for the Memphis Grizzlies who the Celtics have been linked to in trade rumors.

Yves Missi

A big man for the New Orleans Pelicans that the Celtics may target as a more modest upgrade.

Daniel Gafford

A center for the Chicago Bulls that the Celtics may target as a more modest upgrade.

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What they’re saying

“Throughout his tenure as president of basketball operations, Brad Stevens has repeatedly found ways to improve at the trade deadline -- even if just in the margins. Sources expect that to continue.”

— Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps, ESPN reporters (ESPN)

“Anfernee Simons ... would be the most likely candidate to be moved if Stevens makes a move that requires matching a larger salary. And though sources think Boston would target frontcourt size, huge swings for stars such as Antetokounmpo or Memphis Grizzlies big man Jaren Jackson Jr. seem unlikely.”

— Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps, ESPN reporters (ESPN)

What’s next

The Celtics will continue to explore trade options ahead of the February 9th deadline, but a major splash seems unlikely. They may have to settle for more modest upgrades to their frontcourt.

The takeaway

The Celtics' search for a big man to address their front court needs has hit some roadblocks, leading them to shift their focus to more incremental improvements at the trade deadline rather than a blockbuster move. This reflects the challenges of the current trade market and the Celtics' limitations in assets to make a major splash.