A new rumor could set up a big Boston Celtics trade for the impact center they want, and it could cost the team very little.
The Celtics have been one of the best stories in the NBA this season. The franchise that has been among the very best over the last decade entered its 2025-26 campaign with low expectations. They planned to be without top star Jayson Tatum for almost all of the season after he tore his Achilles tendon last spring. And they had to move on from core veterans like Jrue Holiday and Al Horford in the summer as they looked to cut costs on a bloated payroll.
Yet, as we begin February, the Celtics are tied for the second-best record in the Eastern Conference, and could emerge as a dark horse during the playoffs if they can improve a roster led by MVP candidate Jaylen Brown.
If the team makes a move, it will likely be to improve at the center spot. Boston has gotten rock-solid play from Neemias Queta, but they would like a proven veteran with a strong track record. Well, an intriguing option is seemingly available, and he could come at a bargain rate.
According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the Cleveland Cavaliers have “explored ways of trading the contract of big man Jarrett Allen ($90.7 million combined in the next three seasons) as a way of unlocking much bigger possibilities.”
Boston Celtics can get Jarrett Allen for a bargain rate
celtics
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
What are those possibilities, you ask? In a separate report, Amick claimed that due to the team being the only one over the second tax apron, they have been working to slash payroll with the ultimate goal of pursuing a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. However, he also added that if a deal for the Milwaukee Bucks superstar was unlikely, they could pivot to a move for Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis.
That means the Cavs don’t want to take big contracts back in the deal, or get ones they can move on from without major penalties. So, the Celtics could hold on to Anfernee Simons and give up players like Sam Hauser and end-of-the-bench talent in a potential trade.
While Allen has a lot of money left on his deal, he is a proven impact player at center on the boards and on defense. If they are willing to take on his money, he can be a key part of their core over the next few seasons.
avatar
After earning his journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos served as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sucka ... More about Jason Burgos