**Celtics Eye Major Trade as Tatum Nears Return, $27M Deal in Play**
Key Takeaways:
- The Boston Celtics are exploring a trade involving Anfernee Simons’ $27.6M expiring contract.
- Jayson Tatum is nearing a return from ACL surgery, prompting roster adjustments.
- The team is targeting top-tier defensive centers to support a postseason title push.
Boston, MA — “Celtics score” trends upward this week as trade deadline news and Jayson Tatum’s expected return light up conversations around the Boston Celtics. The team is reportedly at the start of a critical transition, shopping guard Anfernee Simons and his expiring $27.6 million contract to acquire an elite center — a clear signal that Boston is ramping up its title ambitions as its All-Star forward works his way back from injury.
Tatum’s Expected Return Fuels Trade Decision
A report by NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that the Celtics are actively pursuing a starting-caliber center ahead of the NBA trade deadline. The development coincides with news that Jayson Tatum is progressing well in his recovery from a torn ACL suffered during the 2025 playoffs. Though no official date has been provided, team insiders believe his return is imminent — possibly under a minutes restriction.
The Celtics currently sit at 28-17, second in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to Jaylen Brown, who has shouldered the scoring and leadership responsibilities in Tatum’s absence. However, the front office appears unwilling to risk overworking Brown, especially with a potential deep postseason run in sight.
Celtics Target Defense-First Centers
With Tatum returning and Brown already logging heavy minutes, Boston is looking to solidify the frontcourt with a rim-protecting big who can offset Tatum’s size limitations and balance the rotation. On Boston’s reported wishlist are Ivica Zubac (Clippers), Nic Claxton (Nets), Onyeka Okongwu (Hawks), and Daniel Gafford (Wizards) — all notable for their defensive impact.
Among these, Claxton and Gafford appear to be the most attainable. Zubac, meanwhile, is seen as unlikely to be moved due to his strong synergy with James Harden in Los Angeles. Okongwu could become available depending on Atlanta’s strategic direction. Each option would immediately upgrade Boston’s current center rotation of Neemias Queta and Luka Garza, who have been serviceable but lack elite interior defense.
Contract Math Behind the Simons Move
The Celtics face a looming financial crunch. With both Tatum and Brown’s supermax extensions kicking in soon, retaining Simons after his contract expires in 2026 becomes fiscally unrealistic. Simons is currently averaging 13.6 points per game, but his role is interchangeable given Boston’s deep guard rotation.
By moving his $27.6M deal now, Boston not only gains trade leverage but also clears cap space to invest in a core piece better suited to their playoff needs. League insiders view this as Boston making a long-term bet on interior defense and postseason survivability, especially given Tatum’s uncertain physical state following a major injury.
Timing Reflects Strategic Shift for Second-Half Push
The Celtics have treated the 2025–26 regular season as a reset year following Tatum’s injury during the previous playoffs. Brown has demanded All-Star attention with his consistent performances, but playoff success nearly always hinges on depth and two-way balance.
This rumored trade strategy is the final major adjustment before Boston embarks on phase two of its championship window — this time with a healthy Tatum and a refocused unit that has experience, chemistry, and renewed urgency. Strengthening the frontcourt is clearly the missing link, as interior defense and rebounding have been weak spots all season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is “Celtics score” trending?
A: Interest surged following news that Boston is negotiating a major roster move as Jayson Tatum nears return, with implications for team scoring and depth.
Q: What happens next?
A: The NBA trade deadline is weeks away, and a deal moving Anfernee Simons could happen within days if the Celtics target agrees to terms.
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