Brad Stevens, Boston Celtics
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Brad Stevens, Boston Celtics
Finding a long-term solution to the starting center position is arguably the biggest task facing Brad Stevens and the Boston Celtics.
During the offseason, Boston lost three key members of the front court. Kristaps Porzingis was traded to the Atlanta Hawks. Al Horford joined the Golden State Warriors in free agency. And, Luke Kornet received a significant pay rise by heading to the San Antonio Spurs.
In their absence, both Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have stepped up. However, the Celtics will need a high-level big man in the fold when they’re ready to begin pushing for championships again.
In a recent article from The Athletic’s Jay King, Ivica Zubac was pinpointed as the “ideal target” for the Celtics.
“It’s unclear whether the Clippers’ big man will be available. If he is, he could be an ideal target,” King wrote. “At 28, he fits Boston’s timeline alongside Tatum and Brown and should still have years of his prime left. Zubac was second-team All-Defense last season and is also an impactful offensive player with big offensive rebound numbers. On top of his basketball talent, his contract would be a positive for the Celtics.”
King continued.
“Zubac will make $18.1 million this season (more than $9 million less than Simons) with two more seasons left on a very reasonable deal. The problem? If Zubac is available, he would likely require the Celtics to part ways with significant draft capital. Still, if he’s the missing piece, he would be worth it.”
Unfortunately for Boston, the LA Clippers have turned a corner in recent weeks. As such, the likelihood of them trading Zubac mid-season has significantly dwindled.
Celtics Receive Blow Over Zubac
Even if Boston is interested in adding Zubac to the rotation, it would appear the Clippers aren’t sold on the idea of cashing in on their starting center.
“I was impressed by how focused the Clippers looked last Friday when they came to Barclays Center and promptly trounced the Nets,” NBA Inside Jake Fischer reported for the Stein Line Newsletter. “I can likewise tell you, based on conversations with numerous teams, that any hopes that the Clippers would part with Zubac or James Harden have faded significantly.”
Zubac has played in 34 games for the Clippers this season, averaging 14.8 points, 10.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists. His skill set would fit perfectly with the Celtics, on both ends of the floor.
Boston Should Be In No Rush To Upgrade
While adding a high-level big should certainly be a priority, the Celtics shouldn’t be in a rush to make a deal.
Joe Mazzulla’s team is second in the Eastern Conference, despite Jayson Tatum being sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury. Both Queta and Garza are shining in their roles, as are most of Boston’s “prove it” contingent of young wings.
Waiting until the summer to make moves wouldn’t be the worst idea for Stevens. The additional time would provide ample opportunity to scour the trade market and take stock of the talent currently with the team.
Nevertheless, if a player like Zubac does become available, Boston would be wise to make a move. After all, the goal is to win championships. The current roster doesn’t appear to be too far away from being ready to contend.