Blockbuster Celtics Trade Pitch Lands $60 Million All-Star Center

The Boston Celtics remain active in what’s already been one of the most aggressive offseasons in recent franchise history. With Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday both moved, Boston has shed major contracts while getting younger and more flexible.

The early returns? Georges Niang and Anfernee Simons. Both on expiring deals. Both acquired without giving up any long-term assets. It’s the kind of calculated reshuffling that Brad Stevens has become known for—building for now and next.

But he may not be done yet.

Celtics Exploring Center Upgrade in Vucevic Trade Pitch

The Chicago Bulls have been quiet this summer. But in a proposal floated by CelticsBlog’s Jason Issenberg, they could shake things up by sending Nikola Vucevic to Boston in a straight-up deal for Simons.

For Boston, this solves a key problem. The team is light at center. Porzingis is gone. Al Horford is expected to move on. Luke Kornet signed with the Spurs. That leaves Boston without a true starting-caliber big. Vucevic—who’s averaged at least 17 points and 10 boards in every season since 2018—would change that overnight.

He brings elite rebounding. A reliable post presence. And just enough floor spacing to play alongside Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. In short, he fits.

Why It Makes Sense for Boston—and Chicago

For Boston, this isn’t just about fit. It’s also about money. Vucevic is owed $20 million next season—roughly $6 million less than Simons. That savings could go a long way in avoiding the second tax apron. And with Jayson Tatum expected to miss the year, Boston can afford to make short-term bets.

The Bulls, meanwhile, would be swapping Vucevic for a younger guard who’s on an expiring deal. They already have Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu, but Simons adds punch. And if it doesn’t work? They clear cap.

It’s a swing. But not a wild one.

Boston’s Last Big Move?

Vucevic wouldn’t be the long-term answer. But for a team that still expects to contend, he’s a steady solution. His defense is a concern—but with Brown and White around him, Boston can cover.

The Celtics have reportedly been trying to move Anfernee Simons for weeks. This pitch would do exactly that—while keeping the rest of the roster intact. No need to part with Sam Hauser, Neemias Queta, or burn any future picks.

Boston may have already made its biggest splashes this summer. But in a year defined by change, one more move wouldn’t be surprising.