Finding a long-term solution at the center position should be a top priority for the Boston Celtics. Neemias Queta was doing a solid job as the starting big man for Joe Mazzulla’s team before his ankle sprain; nevertheless, it’s clear that he would be better served coming off the bench.
In a recent Bleacher Report article, Zach Buckley floated a trade idea that would land Nic Claxton with the Celtics. The trade proposal looks like this:
Celtics Get: Nic Claxton
Brooklyn Nets Get: Anfernee Simons, a 2026 second-round pick and a 2027 first-round pick (top-five protected)
“While by no means a behemoth big man (6’11”, 215 lbs), he (Claxton) fits into the rim-running archetype with impressive defensive mobility for the role,” Buckley reasoned. “He’s also successfully dabbled in more of an offensive playmaking role this season (career-high 4.3 assists against just 1.5 turnovers), perhaps convincing would-be suitors that he can offer more on that end than just interior scoring.”
Claxton is currently in the second year of a four-year $97 million deal. His salary is set to decline throughout the course of the deal. He’s earning $25.3 million this season.
However, the Brooklyn Nets are unlikely to let Claxton leave for pennies on the dollar. As such, Brad Stevens may need to be prepared to dangle one of the team’s younger prospects along with Simons to get a deal over the line.
The Celtics Are Staying Active In The Trade Market
According to Matt Moore of Fansided, the Celtics have continued to engage teams on the possibility of trades. However, Moore did note that Boston’s unwillingness to take back additional money is making their search for reinforcements more difficult.
“Boston is routinely mentioned as a team that continues to canvass for opportunities. It’s tough because they aren’t willing to take on money after their cost-cutting efforts this summer, but they remain one of the more opportunistic teams,” Moore wrote.
The Celtics have multiple young talents and draft picks available to dangle in trade discussions. They also have Anfernee Simons’ expiring contract, which is a viable trade chip, should they wish to part with the score-first guard.
Neemias Queta To Miss Some Time For The Celtics
On Sunday, Nov. 23, Queta suffered an ankle sprain in the opening quarter of his team’s win over the Orlando Magic. He’s been ruled out for Boston’s game against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Ankle sprains usually take a couple of weeks to heal. As such, Queta could be out of the rotation until mid-December. Without the impressive rim-runner, Boston will likely lean on Luka Garza and rookie Amari Williams to anchor the paint.
Therefore, Stevens may decide that now is the perfect time to begin shopping for a long-term solution at the center position. Claxton makes perfect sense. He fits the high-tempo offense Joe Mazzulla is trying to implement, solves the rebounding issues and provides a lob threat.
Claxon is having an impressive year for the Nets. He’s averaging 14.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 17 games. And, he’s shooting 56% from the field on nine attempts per game. If the Celtics are looking for an upgrade at center, Claxton would certainly fit the bill.
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