Celtics could make ultimate center trade if latest rumor comes true

Friday, ESPN's Shams Charania joined the Pat McAfee Show to discuss the latest rumblings around the NBA. Among the teams brought up were the Boston Celtics. For the job Jaylen Brown has done leading the second seed in the East, Charania stated he "has to be in the MVP conversation."

As for what Boston might do between now and the trade deadline, which is on Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. EST, ESPN's NBA insider said he could see the Celtics being a buyer, with a specific position in mind.

"They've been in the marketplace, trying to go get a big-time starting center potentially," said Charania. "So, they're gonna be, I think, aggressive in moving the needle. They've got assets, they've got contracts to use and play with."

What should the Celtics do at the trade deadline?

If the franchise feels comfortable standing pat, there's nothing wrong with a quiet trade deadline. They have already established themselves as a legitimate contender in the wide-open Eastern Conference. Furthermore, Boston is generating the second-most points per 100 possessions; Joe Mazzulla's club has the second-best defensive rating in the NBA and the second-highest net rating.

Giving those who have propelled the Celtics to this point the rest of the season and a playoff run to continue growing and to prove themselves is an opportunity they have earned. Of course, that doesn't mean it will happen.

One reason it might not is the relentless nature with which Jayson Tatum is attacking his rehab. The six-time All-Star recently went through an extensive on-court workout in front of the media. He recently passed the eight-month mark in his road to recovery.

If Tatum returns in February or March, giving him time to ramp up for the postseason, he can be far from his All-NBA First Team form and still prove the most impactful addition any organization makes during the current campaign.

Whether it's in addition to Tatum rejoining the lineup or not, if Boston's a buyer at the trade deadline, as Charania noted, the place to look is at the center position.

Neemias Queta is thriving as the starter. Since Luka Garza rejoined the rotation, changes in how he defends the pick-and-roll have allowed him to pair his impact as a screener, shooter, and on the offensive glass with more sound defensive play.

Still, with Charania reporting the Celtics are "trying to go get a big-time starting center," the individual he is likely referring to is Ivica Zubac. They have been connected to the Los Angeles Clippers' starter at the five spot earlier in the season.

There are also rumors about Boston pursuing Jaren Jackson Jr. He would be an outstanding fit on defense, and he would give them a floor-spacing five at the other end of the floor. Under the previous collective bargaining agreement, he would be well worth the price. While he'd be well worth the price under the prior collective bargaining agreement, the current, more punitive CBA makes adding a contract averaging north of $51 million annually over the next four years a difficult path for the Celtics.

Still, if Charania's report turns out to be the direction they go in, Zubac and Jackson are the most likely names to monitor.