The Boston Celtics came back down to earth after a hot streak, losing two straight to fall to 24-15 and to third place in the Eastern Conference. Yet, the fascination around what the Celtics will do at the Feb. 5 trade deadline remains.
There are strong arguments to be made about the Celtics' needs to buy, sell, or stand pat at the deadline. Boston can certainly make a run to the NBA Finals this season with the right move at the deadline. At the same time, they definitely have a better chance to win a title next season when Jayson Tatum is back to being fully healthy. Keeping their powder dry and building a contender around a healthy Tatum and surging Jaylen Brown may make more sense. Which direction GM Brad Stevens will choose will be one of the most interesting trade deadline storylines in the league.
Walker Kessler Would Be a Perfect Fit in Boston
If the Celtics indeed decide to build a contender for next season, one appealing trade target would be Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. The 24-year-old center is out for the season after undergoing shoulder surgery, but he will be fully healthy for the 2026-27 season. His injury could allow the Celtics to acquire him on a discount.
A potential trade could involve the Celtics sending Sam Hauser and draft capital (presumably two first-round picks) to the Jazz for Kessler.
Kessler is on an expiring contract and will require a new deal upon arriving in Boston. The Celtics will probably have to negotiate with Kessler about what it would take to re-sign him in the offseason. While it would likely take over $20 million per season to retain Kessler, the talented center has a chance to solve Boston's center depth concern for years to come.
Despite only being limited to five games this season, Kessler showed significant development. He has always been a strong finisher around the rim, but he has extended his range to behind the 3-point line this season. He is also an improved playmaker, averaging 3.0 assists for the Jazz in 30 minutes per game. Combine his offensive improvement with his already advanced rim protection and rebounding, and Kessler might be a solid starting center in the NBA for a long time.
Boston has the benefit of dealing with Danny and Austin Ainge in this scenario, who are the lead decision-makers for Utah. If the Jazz are hesitant to give a lucrative, multi-year deal to Kessler, the Celtics would be wise to target him at the deadline. Even though he can't contribute to the team this season, his age and skill set make him a fascinating fit for the Celtics long-term.