The Boston Celtics enter the 2025-26 season with tempered expectations. The team plans to focus on the development of young players while remaining competitive with core pieces such as Jaylen Brown and Derrick White.
With that being said, analysts and fans can’t help but notice the team’s lack of frontcourt depth.
With Luke Kornet gone in free agency and Al Horford unlikely to return, the Celtics’ only options at center are Neemias Queta and Xavier Tillman.
For this reason, acquiring Nikola Vucevic makes a lot of sense. In order to make this deal work, Boston would have to send newly acquired guard Anfernee Simons to the Chicago Bulls in return.
Boston would fill their frontcourt and receive a little cap relief while remaining financially flexible for next season, considering Vucevic is on an expiring deal.
Although Simons offers more long-term potential, the Celtics would find it hard to afford an extension for him beyond this season. Not only would Vucevic fill a need right away, he would be much cheaper to re-sign next season as his salary is certain to decline at age 34.
Not to mention, he’s been one of the most consistent big men in the league over the last decade. Last season, he showed no signs of slowing down, averaging 18.5 points per game, 10.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists. Not to mention a 3-point shooting percentage of 40.2% — a figure that would fit seamlessly into a Celtics offense that led the league in 3-point attempts last season.
While not the flashiest move, there’s plenty of upside in adding Vucevic ahead of the 2025-26 season.
