The Boston Celtics’ postseason exposed a familiar weakness: the lack of a reliable, impactful center. With Neemias Queta struggling in the playoffs, Luka Garza still developing, and Nikola Vučević heading into unrestricted free agency, bolstering the frontcourt remains a top priority for President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens this offseason.
Fortunately, the Celtics possess the necessary assets — the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE), a substantial traded player exception, and tradable contracts — to address the issue aggressively. One name gaining traction as a potential target is Orlando Magic forward/center Wendell Carter Jr.
According to Nick Goss of NBC Sports Boston, Carter Jr. represents a logical and attainable option for Boston.
“The Magic have a ton of huge salaries, so it would benefit them to move out some money,” Goss noted. “Carter is a reliable double-digit scorer and a good rebounder. He’s not a dominant shot blocker but does bring good size (6-foot-10, 270 pounds) to the frontcourt. The Magic ranked 28th in 3-point percentage during the regular season, and given Boston’s abundance of good outside shooters, these two teams make sense as potential trade partners.”
A Proven Fit for Boston’s System
Carter Jr. appeared in 78 games for the Magic last season, delivering consistent production: 11.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. He shot an efficient 51.2% from the field and 31.9% from three-point range. At 6’10” and 270 pounds, he brings the physical presence the Celtics have lacked in the middle, while his ability to stretch the floor and facilitate aligns well with the modern, positionless style favored by head coach Joe Mazzulla.
Unlike pure rim-runners or traditional paint enforcers, Carter offers a well-rounded skill set. He can score in the post, knock down mid-range jumpers, and contribute as a secondary playmaker — traits that would complement Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard.
Contract and Trade Feasibility
Carter is entering the first year of a three-year, $37.6 million extension, set to earn $18.1 million next season. While not a cheap acquisition, the contract is manageable within the Celtics’ financial framework, especially if Orlando seeks salary relief amid its crowded and expensive roster.
A trade would likely involve Boston sending out matching salary and possibly draft compensation or young assets. Given the Magic’s need to create financial flexibility, conversations between the two front offices could materialize quickly.
Broader Roster Needs Complicate the Picture
The center position is not Boston’s only area of concern. The team also needs additional guard depth to provide optionality behind Pritchard and White. If Stevens uses the MLE to target a ball-handler in free agency, the front office will almost certainly need to turn to the trade market to solve the big-man problem.
Alternatively, the Celtics could look to the NBA Draft. CBS Sports’ Adam Finkelstein’s latest mock draft has Boston selecting versatile wing Amari Allen from Alabama with the 27th overall pick.
“The Celtics grab a hard-nosed wing in Amari Allen,” Finkelstein wrote. “He fits the Boston mold perfectly; he can facilitate, run and he’s a dog on defense. He’s the type of competitor who will thrive under Joe Mazzulla.”
Allen’s combination of skill, toughness, passing, and rebounding makes him an attractive developmental piece. The Celtics could also consider moving up in the draft for a big like North Carolina’s Henri Veesaar, though that would require additional assets.
A Necessary Reset
After a disappointing first-round exit, changes to the roster are inevitable. The Celtics built a championship contender in recent years, but sustained success in today’s NBA demands continuous evolution. Acquiring a player of Carter Jr.’s caliber through a well-executed trade could provide the interior stability and frontcourt depth needed to return to title contention.
Whether through a blockbuster deal for Wendell Carter Jr., strategic free agency moves, or smart draft selections, the Celtics’ front office has the tools — and the urgency — to reshape the roster before opening night. A “mega heist” may be closer than many realize.