Celtics Floated as Trade Destination for Defensive-Minded Big Man

The Boston Celtics’ offseason has been anything but quiet. After parting ways with Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet, their biggest need is suddenly glaring: center depth.

While President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens surveys the market, one name has surfaced as a logical solution—Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets.

Why Claxton Could Be the Answer for Boston

A recent report from Brian Windhorst hinted that Boston is actively shopping newly acquired Anfernee Simons, who arrived in the deal that sent Jrue Holiday to Portland. That’s all fans needed to start firing up trade machines.

One name that makes sense for Boston to target? Nic Claxton.

With Kristaps Porzingis already gone and Al Horford widely expected to retire or move on this summer, the Celtics are in urgent need of a long-term solution at center. Claxton fits the bill. At his best, he’s an elite shot-blocker with the ability to switch across multiple positions. During the 2022–23 season, he led the league in field goal percentage, finished 9th in Defensive Player of the Year voting, and averaged 3.0 blocks, 11.1 rebounds, and a slew of tough defensive assignments on a nightly basis.

Although his impact dipped last season, Claxton remains just 25 years old with intriguing upside. Surrounded by capable scorers like Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, and eventually a healthy Jayson Tatum, Claxton could thrive in a simplified role. His presence would allow Tatum to operate more freely as a roaming help defender and reestablish the Celtics’ defensive identity.

Financially, a deal like this could also help Boston duck under the luxury tax threshold—they’d reportedly be only $1.3 million over the tax line after the move.

One proposed version of this trade—outlined by Sports Illustrated’s Rohan Raman—involves three teams:

• Hawks Receive: Sam Hauser

• Celtics Receive: Nic Claxton, Dariq Whitehead, 2027 2nd-round pick (via CLE), 2029 2nd-round pick (via CLE), 2032 2nd-round pick (via ATL)

• Nets Receive: Anfernee Simons, Jordan Walsh, 2027 1st-round pick (via BOS, unprotected)

Celtics’ Center Rotation Still in Flux

Right now, the Celtics’ big man depth chart is thin and uncertain. Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, Xavier Tillman, and rookie Amari Williams are all options—but none are proven long-term starters.

Claxton would instantly upgrade that group—and do so without requiring Stevens to break up the championship core. He’s under contract for three more seasons, with an average annual salary of $24.2 million—making him a relatively affordable long-term piece for a contending team.

And while Claxton’s 2024-25 season didn’t match his prior impact, he still offers untapped potential in the right system.

The Celtics’ Next Move?

The Celtics have made it clear their focus is keeping the core intact—Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White—while retooling the roster around them. With Tatum recovering from an Achilles injury and Jrue Holiday already traded to Portland in exchange for Simons, the upcoming season may serve as a bridge year.

A move for Claxton wouldn’t just patch up a short-term hole at center. It could offer long-term stability at a position that’s been in flux for years.

Whether Stevens makes a push now or waits until midseason, one thing is clear. If Boston is serious about building around its stars, upgrading the frontcourt is a must. Claxton might be the most logical piece to start that process.