Celtics urged to target $100 million center to solve frontcourt issues

There might not be any team in the league more desperate for a big man than the Boston Celtics.

After losing in the second round, the Celtics had to make some big moves to address their financial situation. To avoid the second apron, Boston had to trade Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis while letting Luke Kornet and likely Al Horford walk in free agency.

Of course, with three centers departing, that left Boston in a tricky situation heading into next season. While the Celtics are currently projected to start Neemias Queta at the five, there is still plenty of time for Brad Stevens and company to make another deal this offseason.

Although the free agent market doesn’t leave much for Boston, the trade market opens up numerous possibilities. Among those possibilities is a deal with the Brooklyn Nets.

As suggested by Nets on SI’s Jed Katz, Boston could be an ideal landing spot for Nic Claxton. An athletic big man best known for his interior defense and finishing, Claxton could help solve some problems for Boston next season and beyond.

As far as the trade itself, the Celtics could easily swap recently acquired Anfernee Simons for Claxton in a one-for-one deal. With plenty of rumors about Simons’ future in Boston being limited already, he might have a chance to get more opportunities in Brooklyn.

While the salaries of Claxton and Simons are similar, the Nets' big man is still under contract for the next three seasons on a declining deal, which could make him a perfect fit for Boston once Jayson Tatum returns as well.