As the February 5, 2026 NBA trade deadline approaches, the Boston Celtics are firmly positioned as buyers. Entering the season with tempered expectations due to Jayson Tatum’s long-term injury, the reality has been stunning: Jaylen Brown’s MVP-caliber play has powered Boston into serious contention. Friday night’s double-overtime thriller win over the Brooklyn Nets improved them to 28-16, holding 2nd in the Eastern Conference.
With an already competitive roster, the front office is exploring frontcourt upgrades – and a familiar name from that Nets game has surged to the top: Nic Claxton. Per NBA reporter Jake Weinbach, the Celtics are a leading candidate if the Nets continue entertaining offers.
Weinbach reported: “The Celtics should be considered one of the top potential landing spots for Nic Claxton if the Nets continue to entertain offers. Boston can build a package around Anfernee Simons and a first-round pick for Claxton, who would be an ideal fit in Joe Mazzulla’s system.”
Claxton Shines vs. Boston – But Finger Injury Raises Concerns In the double-OT loss to Boston, Claxton played 38 minutes with 18 points (8-13 FG), 9 rebounds (4 offensive), 4 assists, and 2 blocks – including a clutch putback dunk with 1.9 seconds left to force OT. He was a force in the paint and rim protection.
However, he suffered a finger injury during the game: “It’s sore. I really don’t know. I’ve just got to get X-rays, MRIs. So I don’t know… It was just locking up, so I just put some tape on it. I’ll know more (Saturday),” Claxton told reporters postgame (via New York Post). The severity could impact trade talks – but if minor, Boston remains aggressive.
Why Claxton Is a Perfect Fit for Boston Through 41 games this season, Claxton averages 12.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 blocks in 29.8 minutes, shooting 58.4% FG. His rim protection, switchability, and efficient finishing align seamlessly with Mazzulla’s switch-heavy, spacing-oriented system.
Claxton’s contract: second year of a four-year, $97 million deal – $25.3 million this season, declining to $20.9 million in the final year (2027-28). The front-loaded structure is contender-friendly. While Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have exceeded expectations as backups, Claxton would elevate the ceiling – especially with Tatum expected back for a late-season surge.
Trade Package: Simons + Pick Anfernee Simons’ $27.6 million expiring deal is Boston’s key trade asset. Adding a protected first-round pick could make a compelling offer. ClutchPoints’ Tom Azerly notes the Clippers have interest in Simons – potentially opening multi-team pathways if the Ivica Zubac angle cools.
Competition Heating Up – Lakers Also In Mix Multiple teams are checking in on Claxton, including the Lakers – but Boston’s contender status and system fit give them an edge. With the deadline 12 days away, Brad Stevens could make a calculated move to add a proven rim protector and push for Banner 19.
Celtics fans, this could be the upgrade that defines the season: Claxton in green, defense becomes elite. Brown soaring, Tatum returning – add a center like this and Boston is scary.
Do you want to see Simons + pick for Claxton? Or hold for Zubac/other targets? Drop your thoughts below!