Celtics Nation, with the NBA trade deadline looming on February 5, 2026, Brad Stevens is quietly working the phones – and HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto dropped intriguing intel Tuesday: The Boston Celtics have expressed interest in prying Ivica Zubac from the LA Clippers. The 28-year-old Croatian big man, a force on both ends, could be the perfect frontcourt boost as Boston awaits Jayson Tatum’s potential late-season return from that ruptured Achilles.
Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) reacts to a call during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Miami.
Even sans Tatum (out all year), and after offseason departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Luke Kornet, and Al Horford, the revamped Celtics sit at a strong 23-12 (second in the East). Neemias Queta’s stepped up huge as starter (10.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG on efficient finishing and rebounding), but adding Zubac would elevate the paint game to contender elite. The 7-footer’s averaging a double-double: 15.0 PPG, 11.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 blocks in 31.7 minutes – plus he’s a proven plus defender (6th in 2024-25 DPOY voting, All-Defensive Second Team).
Scotto notes earlier inquiries pegged Zubac’s price at at least two first-round picks – steep, but Boston has assets (multiple firsts available post-recent trades). Salary match could involve Anfernee Simons (high-usage guard, potential trade chip) or Sam Hauser (shooter depth), keeping long-term flexibility intact. Zubac’s deal? Friendly $18.1M this year, averaging ~$20M through 2027-28 – no cap killer for a team already thriving.
Why Zubac fits Mazzulla’s vision:
Rim Protection & Rebounding: Anchors the interior, frees Bam-like versatility for others (think Queta/Xavier Tillman rotation depth).Two-Way Reliability: Offensive finishing (lob threat, post touch), defensive IQ – addresses any frontcourt vulnerability without disrupting chemistry.Playoff Proven: Clippers staple, thrives in high-stakes (unlike flashier names with question marks).
Indiana’s also sniffed around, but Boston’s contention timeline (Brown MVP-level, White DPOY candidate, deep wing rotation) makes this a swing worth considering. No desperation – this team’s exceeded expectations – but Zubac could solidify them as East favorites, especially if Tatum ramps back.
Deadline drama heating up: Will Stevens pull the trigger for that extra paint dominance?
Celtics fans, Zubac worth two firsts? Better frontcourt targets out there? How huge would he be for a title run?