The Boston Celtics, owners of the NBA’s 10th-best record after 26 games, are weighing potential roster moves ahead of the trade deadline, team president of basketball operations Brad Stevens said this week.
Speaking with reporters, Stevens emphasized that the organization will “not put a ceiling” on the current group. “If it makes sense for us to look for things that can help us, we certainly will,” he said, according to The Athletic’s Jay King. “But it all has to be within good deals and within the ultimate goal.”
That goal remains a run at the franchise’s 18th championship despite a turbulent offseason that saw much of the frontcourt depart and Jayson Tatum suffer a torn Achilles tendon last spring.
Cap sheet limits and recent momentum
Boston is operating above the luxury-tax threshold, so any incoming salary would add to the financial burden unless money is sent out in return. Even so, the club’s form—15 wins in its past 23 games—has reduced the likelihood of a broad overhaul. Jaylen Brown’s 29.3 points per game, one of the league’s top marks, has powered the surge.
“What’s the difference between third and ninth in the East right now? There’s hardly anything,” Stevens noted, highlighting a tightly packed conference race.
Possible needs and targets
If Boston does look to acquire help, depth in the frontcourt appears to be the primary focus. Guard Anfernee Simons, playing on an expiring $27.7 million contract, is among the names mentioned as a potential option.
Tatum’s timetable remains open-ended
The Celtics have declined to set a public timeline for Tatum’s return. Stevens said the forward will not play until he is “fully healthy,” adding that several strength benchmarks and on-court progressions still must be met.
With Tatum sidelined, a strong recent stretch and financial constraints shaping their options, the Celtics enter the trade season better positioned than many anticipated—but still evaluating how best to bolster the roster.
Source: Hoops Wire
