The Boston Celtics have some moves to make and could even outbid their biggest rival.
This offseason should be an important one in Boston. With the team looking to address its shaky cap situation and still find ways to contend for a title, the Celtics could make some big, yet calculated moves in the coming weeks.
Of the potential players on the way out, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis could be the top candidates. Although Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown or Derrick White would net the best return, the Celtics’ future title hopes likely rely on those three being on the roster.
Of course, it’s not exactly an easy task for Boston to build a contender without two key starters from their championship team, but there is certainly a path. One of those paths could include sending Porzingis to the Utah Jazz.
According to a report from Anthony Irwin, the Jazz and Los Angeles Lakers have had discussions about a trade featuring John Collins and Rui Hachimura. While Collins would be a great fit in Los Angeles, he could also solve some problems in Boston.
That deal could be as simple as a one-for-one swap of Porzingis for Collins, giving the Jazz a coveted big man looking to repair his reputation next season and giving Boston a cheaper but reliable option as a four or small-ball five.
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One hiccup could be Collins’ player option that he would have to opt into. Of course, he is set to make $26.6 million if he opts in, and if he can contribute to a hopeful contender, he could easily set up a great market for himself in free agency in 2026.
Last season, Collins averaged 19 points and 8.2 rebounds with the Jazz. With Tatum out for much of the year in Boston, Collins’ high-level production could also help the Celtics stay afloat in a somewhat weak Eastern Conference.
