5 gamers the Celtics may goal this offseason

Boston Celtics

One NBA insider reported that Kawhi Leonard might be a chief commerce candidate this offseason.

Giannis Antetokounmpo will definitely be the discuss of the NBA offseason till his residence for 2026 and past is solidified. A former MVP, he’s the largest title that might be on the transfer if the Bucks fulfill his needs.

The Celtics look like in on Antetokounmpo, in keeping with NBA insiders. But when they bow out or fail to land the celebrity, who’s left in the marketplace that would assist them get again to deep playoff rivalry?

Listed below are 5 gamers that Boston may goal outdoors of Antetokounmpo this offseason.

Kawhi Leonard

Leonard might be a reputation to look at on the commerce block this season, in keeping with sources from NBA reporter Michael Scotto. If that involves fruition, he’d simply be the following greatest obtainable participant this offseason after Antetokounmpo.

Leonard would match like a glove on the Celtics as nicely, given his versatility and defensive prowess. He’s a veteran with championship expertise, who can rating however received’t demand the ball, and he’s a three-level scorer.

There’s no telling what Boston must give as much as purchase Leonard. Nevertheless it’s most likely value not less than kicking the tires with the Clippers to examine on his availability and value.

LeBron James

When it comes to unrestricted free brokers, James is much and away the largest and greatest title set to hit the market.

Even in his 40s, James is producing over 20 factors per recreation. And this previous season, he proved that he’s not solely prepared to just accept a job as a second choice, however he’s thriving in it.

James may have loads of suitors if he elects to go away LA, which is a giant if, contemplating his household is there and his son is his teammate. But when he does depart, he’d actually be match for the Celtics. James has the dimensions to play ahead, however the IQ to be extra of some extent guard.

Boston may feasibly construct a beginning 5 with Derrick White and Jaylen Brown within the again courtroom, and James, Jayson Tatum, and Neemias Queta within the entrance courtroom whereas permitting James to run level offensively. Having him facilitate would assist remedy the Celtics occasional points taking part in an excessive amount of isolation ball.

James needs to be thought-about an extended shot on Boston’s offseason wishlist, but when he’s on the lookout for one final title run earlier than retiring, it may be touchdown spot for each events.

John Collins

Collins didn’t precisely have a profession yr in 2025-26, but when the Celtics wish to add ahead depth, he’d actually be choice.

At 28 years outdated, he averaged 13 factors and 5 rebounds per recreation, taking pictures over 55 p.c from the sphere and 40 p.c from 3-point vary. In a bigger function with the Utah Jazz in 2024-25, he averaged over 19 factors per recreation, so he’s confirmed to be greater than succesful as an offensive menace.

Collins would possibly command a bigger contract than Boston is prepared to supply, relying on what its method shall be to the posh tax. However his play type would appear to suit properly alongside Tatum’s.

Jaxson Hayes

Hayes has some rising to do as a middle, however for a reasonably low wage cap hit, the Celtics may bolster their heart depth.

Hayes averaged 7.5 factors and 4.1 rebounds per recreation final season taking part in roughly 18 minutes per recreation. Given Queta’s struggles to remain on the courtroom within the playoffs, a man like Hayes behind him wouldn’t be the worst factor for Boston. Hayes solely averaged 1.9 fouls per recreation final yr, in comparison with 2.8 per recreation for Queta (and 4.1 per recreation within the postseason).

Coby White

The Celtics aren’t in dire want of guard assist, but when they do look to enhance at that place, White is an unrestricted free agent coming off a season during which he averaged over 17 factors per recreation. His 3-point stroke is comparatively common; he’s a profession 36 p.c shooter from distance. However he’s a succesful scorer in different methods, too.

If both Payton Pritchard or Derrick White results in a commerce situation this offseason, C. White may fill their offensive output.