Giannis Antetokounmpo might be the Boston Celtics primary target, but it's not like all hope is lost if they lose in the end. No, there aren't better options available than Giannis, but there are options good enough to improve the Celtics from where they currently stand. The latest batch of NBA intel suggests that Brad Stevens is looking into all available options.
NBA Insider Jake Fischer reported that Boston looked into potentially acquiring Rudy Gobert before the NBA Trade Deadline. He added that while the Timberwolves aren't shopping Gobert, but aren't against a shakeup.
"Sources say that Boston, furthermore, has inquired about Gobert before ... most recently at February's trade deadline," Fischer wrote. "Now I don't think that the Wolves are actively shopping Gobert, either way, but Minnesota is said to be as exploratory and open-minded as Boston when it comes to shaking up the roster around the team's clear alpha (Edwards)."
it turns out Gobert's not the only one on the Celtics' radar, as Fischer also revealed that Isaiah Stewart is on their current radar. They are also not alone.
"Boston is known to be looking for frontcourt upgrades and has liked Stewart for some time, sources say. I'm also told that we should list San Antonio and Miami as teams interested in the Pistons' bruising big man," Fischer wrote.
If the opportunity presents itself, the Celtics should absolutely go after Gobert, one of the best defender of his generation who changes so much on the defensive side of the floor. As an added bonus, Boston could try to pair him with their trio of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White, though that would take quite some cap maneuvering.
It's complicated but not impossible. As for Stewart, Detroit is in a bit of a bind because they have to pay Jalen Duren, an All-NBA third team recipient, and will have to cut ties with some of their players to make room for him. Suddenly Stewart would become one of those diamond in the rough additions Stevens has a history of pulling off.
The conclusion is simple: Boston wants more frontcourt help
Between Giannis, Gobert, and Stewart, Stevens is making it clear that he believes it's in the Celtics' best interest to add another big man to the rotation. Neemias Queta and Luka Garza thrived in their roles, but their limited ceilings got exposed in the postseason.
He may not do anything too drastic, but after getting ousted in the first round, it became clear that Stevens can't walk away with nothing when this offseason comes to a close. He's had some time to ponder about what the best move for Boston is, and in due time, we'll get to see what he's cooked up.
Between Fischer's latest and the Antetokounmpo rumors, at the very least, we know Stevens knows the obvious problem must be taken care of. How it'll be taken care of will be the real question.
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