The worst-kept secret in the NBA is that the Boston Celtics are in need of a proven veteran at center. It's unclear if the Celtics intend to acquire a player of that nature, but what's certain is that options will exist ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline.
If there's one player who Boston should have circled as a cost-efficient target whom they could realistically acquire, it's Phoenix Suns center Nick Richards.
The Suns went all-in on the center position by acquiring Khaman Maluach, Richards, and Mark Williams within a span of roughly five months. They joined incumbent Oso Ighodaro, who has spent 92 percent of his minutes at center in 2025-26.
With four centers who lack the floor-spacing capabilities to play consistent minutes alongside one another, it's only a matter of time before at least one is officially lost in the shuffle.
Richards appears to be the player enduring that fate, as he's averaging just 9.6 minutes per game thus far in 2025-26. Compounded by the fact that he's playing on an expiring $5 million salary, there's ample reason to believe the Suns will at least explore the market for the talented big man.
If that proves to be the case, then the Celtics would be wise to capitalize on the Suns' questionable roster structure by trading for Richards at an affordable price.
Nick Richards would resolve several of Celtics' biggest issues
Richards, 28, has carved out a six-year career by excelling in traditional senses down low. He's an excellent rebounder, high-level shot blocker, and more than capable finisher around the rim who converts his free throws when fouls are drawn.
Richards boasts career averages of 14.4 points, 11.8 rebounds, 4.0 offensive boards, and 1.7 blocks per 36 minutes on 63.0 percent shooting from the field and a 73.5 percent mark at the free throw line.
It's difficult to evaluate his game in 2025-26 due to his limited opportunities, but he performed at a quietly elite level down low in 2024-25. He ranked in the 98th percentile in both rim protection and rim disruption, as well as the 89th percentile in rim deterrence, per Basketball Index.
Richards also finished in the 92nd percentile in post defense, the 90th percentile in screen rim defense, and the 94th percentile in offensive rebounds per 75 possessions.
For the Celtics, adding Richards would mean being able to plant a proven commodity down low as a defensive anchor and offensive rebounder. He may not play upward of 30 minutes per game, but he'd maximize the value of the time he's given in several essential areas.
Capable of protecting the rim, disrupting the pick and roll, creating second chances, and finishing efficiently inside, Richards checks boxes the Celtics should prioritize ahead of the trade deadline.
With Phoenix simultaneously prioritizing the younger players on its roster, Richards should be available at a reasonable cost. Compounded by the fact that he has an expiring team-friendly contract, Boston could make a meaningful improvement at a key position without risking much at all.
Boston will likely be thorough in exploring its options, but it can't afford to ignore how attainable Richards appears to be.