The Boston Celtics are known to be in the market for an upgrade at the center position. Neemias Queta has exceeded all expectations as a starter and Luka Garza has stepped up off the bench, but Boston is a factor in the Eastern Conference that appears to be a center away from truly contending.
If a recent report proves true, then the Celtics have their eyes on one of the best centers south of the All-Star line: LA Clippers interior anchor Ivica Zubac.
Zubac, 28, is one of the most productive and talented centers in the Association. Many believe he should've been an All-Star in 2024-25, but even after the arguable snub, he was recognized with All-Defensive Second Team honors.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Celtics previously and perhaps inevitably reached out to express interest in trading for Zubac. The Clippers requested at least two first-round draft picks in return.
"During earlier trade inquiries, it would have taken at least two first-round picks for the Clippers to consider parting with Zubac, league sources told HoopsHype. Among the notable teams to express interest in trading for Zubac were the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics, HoopsHype has learned."
It's unclear if the asking price for Zubac has changed, but with the Clippers struggling to claw back to .500, the time has never been better for the Celtics to resume their interest.
Ivica Zubac would turn the Celtics into contenders overnight
Zubac offers multifaceted value as a center who thrives on both ends of the floor. He earned All-Defense recognition for a multitude of reasons, including his status as a top-tier rebounder, high-level shot blocker, and all-around rim protector.
Despite the Clippers' struggles as a team in 2025-26, Zubac has maintained his status as an elite interior anchor on the defensive end of the floor.
According to Basketball Index, Zubac currently ranks in the 98th percentile in rim deterrence and rim protection, as well as the 94th percentile in rim disruption. He's also in the 91st percentile in post defense and the 98th percentile in screener mobile defense.
Furthermore, Zubac ranks No. 10 amongst qualified players in defensive rebounding percentage, which suggests that he could help the Celtics address their ranking of No. 23 in second-chance points allowed.
On the other end of the floor, Zubac is a productive and efficient player at 16.0 points and 3.4 offensive rebounds per game on 60.1 percent shooting from the field. He's also No. 3 in assists via post ups and No. 5 in points via post ups per contest.
Though Zubac lacks ideal value as a floor spacer, he's a true interior force who can play with his back to the basket, work the pick and roll, and create second chances.
Unfortunately, trading for Zubac would seemingly cost the Celtics two future first-round draft picks. As a 28-year-old two-way center who's in the first season of a team-friendly three-year, $58,650,480 contract, however, the Clippers big man would be worth the risk.
Despite all of its personnel losses, Boston has a realistic chance to return to the NBA Finals in 2025-26. Acquiring Zubac would significantly improve its odds of doing so.