NBA Rumors: Celtics "Most Likely Team" To Make Move For A Center


The Boston Celtics don't need to do a lot at the trade deadline (though the rumor mill has linked them once again to Kevin Durant). But one area they've been said to be looking to upgrade throughout this trade season is at backup big. 

“Based on chats with numerous people throughout the league, the Celtics are most likely to make a move at center," said Celtics beat reporter Jay King in The Athletic. "Though Luke Kornet has been solid this season, the Celtics are expected to evaluate options to shore up the depth behind (Al) Horford and (Robert) Williams while giving (head coach) Joe Mazzulla additional lineup flexibility."

Fellow Celtics reporter Jared Weiss surmises that the Celts could actually include Kornet along with the contract of injured Danilo Gallinari in a trade to fetch someone like Mason Plumlee or PJ Washington from the Charlotte Hornets. 

And besides, Kornet the Hornet has a nice ring to it. 

Other targets Weiss mentions include a couple of backup centers. "Mo Bamba (of the Orlando Magic) and (Detroit's) Nerlens Noel’s names have popped up as potentially available in my conversations with people around the league this week."

Kelly Olynyk of the Utah Jazz has also been rumored as a potential target, and a reunion with the former Celtic would provide them with a stretch big off the bench.

The Celtics are definitely a team to watch in the center market over the next 48 hours. 

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports