Any hopes the Boston Celtics had of acquiring Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers before the trade deadline were dashed this week. In a response to a fan question on Instagram’s Threads, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst indicated that the Clippers have no plans to part with their defensive anchor. “Well, Zubac is absolutely not available and absolutely not a stretch big,” Windhorst stated, highlighting Boston’s pressing need for frontcourt depth after losing both Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet this offseason.
The Celtics’ situation at center has worsened as they entered the season lacking depth. Although Neemias Queta has shown promise, posting career-high averages of 10.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks, he is not being viewed as a long-term starting center for a championship contender. This unfortunate reality has led to speculation that Boston might aggressively seek frontcourt reinforcements leading up to the February 5 trade deadline.
Just last week, a proposal by ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel suggested that Boston could acquire Zubac by trading Anfernee Simons along with draft assets. This was rooted in the Clippers’ previous interest in Simons during his time with the Portland Trail Blazers. However, league feedback regarding Zubac’s availability has remained inconsistent. While there was speculation that Los Angeles might demand at least two first-round picks for him, Windhorst’s latest comments seem to effectively bar any potential Zubac trade from materializing.
The Clippers, despite facing difficulties this season, have little incentive to trade away key players like Zubac, especially since their future draft capital is constrained due to the high-profile trade involving Paul George. Zubac has emerged as one of the NBA’s most effective big men, earning a spot on the All-Defensive Second Team last year and currently averaging 16.6 points, 11.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 block per game. His impressive on-court performance, combined with a favorable contract, underlines why the Clippers are determined to keep him.
With Zubac off the table, Boston’s attention may now pivot toward other potential center options. Candidates such as Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe from the Brooklyn Nets, along with Daniel Gafford from the Mavericks, have emerged as possible targets. However, Windhorst cautioned that the Mavericks are unlikely to part with Gafford due to losing their starting center for the season.
In a previous report, it was revealed that the Celtics had explored trade frameworks with the Nets, potentially involving Simons for frontcourt assistance. Given the current circumstances, revisiting conversations with the Nets may represent Boston’s best opportunity for acquiring impactful center help as they navigate the challenges of the season. This adaptability could open new pathways for the Celtics, allowing them to bolster their lineup as they strive to remain competitive.