In the world of NBA trade rumors, a surprising name can sometimes become the centerpiece, one that could reshape an entire season’s landscape. The LA Clippers’ Ivica Zubac is currently that name for the defending champion Boston Celtics. While the Clippers have never publicly put Zubac on the trading block, the rumor mill is churning following a report from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, revealing a trade scenario many once thought “impossible” is now taking shape.
Why is Zubac Boston’s “Holy Grail”?
Forget about three-point shooting from the center position. What Boston needs now is dominance, toughness, and an immovable wall of defense under the basket. Zubac is the embodiment of that.
Elite Defensive Anchor: At 28, Zubac isn’t just a big man. He is a rebounding machine (11.6 rebounds per game), a shot-blocking specialist, and, crucially, an extremely effective piece in pick-and-roll actions—the favorite weapon of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
Rare Stability: While Neemias Queta is having a breakout season, Zubac offers what Boston needs for its championship defense: certainty. He has seen every type of playoff scenario, performed under immense pressure, and never wavers.
A Gold-Standard Contract: With an $18.1 million salary this year and two more years left ($19.6M and $21M), Zubac possesses a contract of incredible value in the current salary cap climate. This is a rare chance to acquire a top-tier starting center without breaking the bank.
The Puzzling Equation Named “Anfernee Simons”
This is the heart of all discussions. According to Siegel, the key to unlocking negotiations with the Clippers is Anfernee Simons—the talented young guard the Clippers had their eyes on during his Portland days.
The Clippers’ Dream Asset: With the uncertain futures of Paul George and James Harden, the Clippers could be heading toward a rebuild. A young scorer like Simons, paired with a few draft picks from Boston, is an enticing package to start anew.
The Celtics’ Biggest Hurdle: The Stepien Rule—which prohibits teams from trading first-round picks in consecutive years—is the great wall. If the Celtics have already used their 2025 pick, they can only offer their 2026 pick and then… their 2031 pick. A six-year gap between two picks is a massive psychological barrier for any team.
In-Depth Analysis: Pros and Cons
THE POSITIVES (WHY THEY SHOULD DO IT)THE NEGATIVES (RISKS TO CONSIDER)
Instant Elevation: Zubac transforms Boston from a championship contender into a “juggernaut.” A Zubac-Queta duo would be a nightmare for any opponent in the paint.
Too Steep a Price: Two first-round picks is an extremely high price for a center, no matter how good. The Celtics need those picks for their future or for bigger trades (like pursuing a true superstar).
Financial Pressure Relief: Moving Simons’ contract gives the Celtics a chance to dip below the “first apron”—extremely important for future flexibility and avoiding repeater tax penalties.
Disrupting Team Harmony: The current Celtics roster is running smoothly. Integrating a new star, especially a non-shooting center, could disrupt an offensive rhythm built on spacing.
Long-Term Planning: At 28, Zubac fits perfectly with the 3-4 year championship window of Tatum and Brown.
Do the Clips Really Want to Sell?: This is the biggest hurdle. The Clippers are playing well, and Zubac is a pillar. They would only sell if they receive an “offer they can’t refuse.” Is Boston’s package convincing enough?
Prediction and Conclusion
Brad Stevens is not one to make reckless decisions. He is a strategist. This trade has a 30% chance of materializing before the deadline, with higher likelihood in the summer if the Clippers fail in the playoffs.
To persuade the Clippers, Stevens might have to do what he succeeded with in the Derrick White trade: offer a first-round pick with minimal protections (e.g., only top-1 protected), making it extremely valuable in the eyes of his partner.
Ultimately, whether they should pursue Zubac is an easy answer: YES, if the price is right. But in the NBA, there’s rarely a free lunch. Are the Celtics willing to pay a high price for this “final piece,” or will they patiently wait for another opportunity? Only time and Brad Stevens’ wisdom will tell. One thing is certain: this Celtics season will never lack thrilling stories.