With a 5-game winning streak and holding 3rd place in the East, the Celtics are crafting an incredible story. But should they disrupt their long-term plan to shop for a center at the trade deadline, or continue trusting their current roster?
The Boston Celtics are accomplishing what few dared to imagine. In a season labeled a “gap year” after losing Jayson Tatum (Achilles injury) and cornerstones Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the team is delivering a compelling performance with a 15-9 record, ranking 3rd in the Eastern Conference, and riding a 5-game winning streak.
This success is led by Jaylen Brown, who has cemented himself as a top-15 player, alongside the offensive emergence of Derrick White and Payton Pritchard. Notably, young players like Jordan Walsh, Neemias Queta, and Josh Minott have maximized their opportunities to shine.
However, as the goal subtly shifts from “giving their best” to “contending for a championship,” a major question arises: Do the Celtics need a true starting-caliber center to return to the top?
The Center Conundrum: Current Strength vs. Future Need
Center Neemias Queta has made a significant leap, becoming an indispensable factor thanks to his impressive rim protection and improved tactical awareness. He is the reliable anchor for the starting lineup. Behind him, the Celtics flexibly utilize Luka Garza, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman in specific situations, along with effective small-ball stretches.
But to battle giants like Joel Embiid (76ers) or Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks) in a 7-game playoff series, many believe the Celtics need a more experienced and physically dominant “rim-running big man.” This has fueled speculation about Boston targeting players like Ivica Zubac of the LA Clippers.
However, ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst has dampened such hopes: “Zubac is absolutely not available and absolutely not a stretch big.” This statement highlights that the market for high-quality centers who fit the Celtics’ needs is extremely scarce and expensive.
The Path Forward: Three Roads for GM Brad Stevens
General Manager Brad Stevens faces three strategic choices, each with its own merits and risks:
1. THE SAFE CHOICE: Stay the Course, Be Patient
This is the most feasible and perhaps wisest path. The Celtics are winning due to cohesion, a strong team culture, and the tremendous development of young players. Any major move risks disrupting this precious chemistry.
Action: Make no major trades. Continue developing Queta, utilize roster depth, and await Jayson Tatum’s return.
Advantage: Protects team chemistry, does not sacrifice future assets, allows young talents to keep growing.
Disadvantage: Might lack the physicality to compete in the playoffs against the conference’s strongest interior teams.
2. THE MEASURED CHOICE: A Moderate Deal for Depth Upgrade
Instead of aiming for a star, the Celtics could seek a tough, experienced role-playing center to supplement and compete with Queta.
Potential Targets: Players like Daniel Gafford (if available), Andre Drummond, or Mason Plumlee.
Advantage: Lower cost (possibly only a second-round pick or an end-of-bench player), provides necessary toughness and playoff experience without disrupting the core rotation.
Disadvantage: Not a game-changing upgrade, merely a supplement.
3. THE BOLD CHOICE: Go All-In for a Top-Tier Center
This is the riskiest path, requiring Boston to part with a piece of its future (like Anfernee Simons, first-round picks) to acquire a difference-making center.
Potential Targets: Highly difficult-to-acquire names like Ivica Zubac, Jarrett Allen, or Walker Kessler.
Advantage: Instantly elevates the Celtics to bonafide championship contenders, decisively addresses the sole glaring weakness.
Disadvantage: Extremely costly, likely requiring the sacrifice of Anfernee Simons or other valuable future assets. The risk of disrupting the locker room and excellent team chemistry is very high.
Patience May Be the Key
Given their current form, the pressure to “act now” is immense. However, history shows that rushed mid-season trades often carry more risk than reward.
The wisest choice for Brad Stevens is likely a combination of Choice 1 and 2: continue supporting the current roster while quietly exploring the market for a moderate, supplementary punch at center, without paying a king’s ransom. The return of Jayson Tatum will be the Celtics’ biggest “new acquisition.” Any other move must support, not overshadow, the incredible success story they are writing.