Brad Stevens, Boston Celtics
Brad Stevens, Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics need a big man. Brad Stevens oversaw an exodus of talent during the summer, with all three of the Celtics’ primary bigs leaving via trade or free agency.
Kristaps Porzingis was dealt to the Atlanta Hawks. Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs, and Al Horford is now suiting up for the Golden State Warriors.
On NBC Sports Boston’s postgame show after the Celtics’ 110-114 loss to the Denver Nuggets on January 7, Brian Scalabrine appeared adamant about potential trade discussions involving bringing Ivica Zubac to the Celtics.
Scalabrine then detailed what a trade package is expected to look like.
“Guys talk about trades all the time and do random things,” Scalabrine said. “This is actually a real trade…What would you give up for him? That’s the real thing that’s going on. I’m not going to name names. Obviously, we know it’s Anfernee Simons. But one of the dynamic wings.And then how many picks will we give up to be championship level this year during our cap year? I’m comfortable with two picks.I would because Jason Tate was coming back. I don’t need two more young guys. I’m good.”
Scalabrine stopped short of saying the offer has been discussed at the front office level. However, his wording certainly left fans interpreting that Boston has floated a package to the LA Clippers in return for Zubac.
Celtics Are Reported To Have Interest In Zubac
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Celtics hold legitimate interest in acquiring Zubac.
“During earlier trade inquiries, it would have taken at least two first-round picks for the Clippers to consider parting with Zubac,” Scotto reported on Tuesday. “Among the notable teams to express interest were the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics.”
Zubac is one of the best non-shooting bigs in the NBA. He’s an elite drop defender, protects the rim, can operate as a weak-side rim protector, is a solid short-roll creator and has no problems finishing his meals on offense.
At 28 years old, Zubac is entering his prime. If the Celtics can bring him to Boston in return for Simons’ expiring contract and one of their non-star wings, then Stevens should certainly be exploring what else the Clippers would need to sweeten the deal.
Neemias Queta Has Been Solid For The Celtics
Following the loss of so many talented bigs, Neemias Queta has stepped into a starting role for Boston this season. He’s proven to be more than capable of anchoring the middle of the floor and has shown rapid improvements to his game.
In 34 outings, Queta is averaging 10 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists. However, it’s clear that if Boston wants to return to championship contention, Queta is best-suited to a bench role. That’s where Zubac would come in. He’s a proven commodity in the NBA and can be Boston’s starting big man for the next five, six or even seven years.
Furthermore, Zubac is under contract until 2028. Stevens has made no secret about his desire for roster continuity. There’s no guarantee Boston will be able to pry Zubac from a resurgent Clippers team, but if he’s available, he’s absolutely the type of player who can elevate the Celtics back toward contention.