The Boston Celtics are charging into the 2025-26 NBA season with a revamped roster and a hunger to prove they’re still a powerhouse, even without their star forward Jayson Tatum, sidelined by a torn Achilles from last year’s playoffs. After a bold offseason that saw them trade Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Georges Niang, while letting Luke Kornet and likely Al Horford walk in free agency, the Celtics have strategically ducked under the second apron.
This financial flexibility keeps them competitive in the Eastern Conference, led by their dynamic core of Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard. But Boston isn’t done yet. With eyes on the trade deadline, the Celtics are poised to make blockbuster moves that could elevate them from contenders to unstoppable. Here are three trade targets that could make the NBA tremble.
Walker Kessler: The Rim-Protecting Future
The Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler has been a hot name in trade rumors, and for good reason. Despite Utah’s sky-high asking price, Boston could make a compelling case to land the young center to bolster their depleted frontcourt. With Porzingis traded and Horford likely gone, the Celtics need a dominant presence in the paint, and Kessler fits the bill perfectly.
A rebounding machine and elite defender, Kessler’s ability to anchor the defense would give Boston a foundation to build around. His reliable inside scoring adds another dimension, making him a cornerstone for the present and a key piece for the future when Tatum returns. If the Celtics can swing a deal for Kessler, they’ll have a defensive juggernaut who could redefine their frontcourt for years to come.
DeMar DeRozan: The Veteran Star to Ignite a Playoff Run
If Boston wants to make a bold statement and chase a deep playoff run despite Tatum’s absence, DeMar DeRozan could be the missing piece. The Sacramento Kings, likely stuck in the Play-In race again, might make the veteran forward available at the trade deadline, and Boston could snag him without breaking the bank.
DeRozan’s silky mid-range game and clutch scoring would complement Jaylen Brown’s slashing style, creating a nightmare for opposing defenses. His veteran leadership would also steady a roster navigating a transitional season. While DeRozan’s contract might give the Celtics pause, his fit alongside Brown—and potentially Tatum next season—could make him the spark Boston needs to dominate the East. This move would scream one thing: the Celtics are all-in.
Nick Richards: The Underrated Gem for Depth and Durability
For a more under-the-radar move, the Celtics could target Phoenix Suns center Nick Richards to address their glaring lack of frontcourt depth. With Phoenix adding Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach this summer, Richards could slide to the third-string center role, making him a prime trade candidate.
At 27, Richards brings a blend of scoring, rebounding, and defensive tenacity that perfectly suits Boston’s needs. His youth ensures he’s not just a stopgap but a long-term asset who could thrive in the Celtics’ system. Best of all, acquiring Richards likely won’t cost a fortune, allowing Boston to preserve assets while adding a reliable big man. This move would quietly but effectively solidify their rotation, making them a tougher out in the playoffs.
The Celtics’ offseason moves have already reshaped their roster, but their work isn’t done. With Jaylen Brown leading the charge and a trade deadline brimming with possibilities, Boston is sending a clear message to the NBA: they’re not satisfied with “solid.” Targeting players like Walker Kessler, DeMar DeRozan, or Nick Richards could transform the Celtics into an unstoppable force, even without Tatum this season. The rest of the league should be on notice—Boston is building something special, and these three acquisitions could make them downright unbeatable.