NBA Trade Rumors: Boston Celtics Reportedly Eyeing $100 Million Brooklyn Nets Center to Support Jayson Tatum in Title Run

In the heart of the NBA offseason, rumors are swirling around the Boston Celtics once again—this time involving a potential blockbuster deal. According to multiple league insiders, the Celtics are reportedly eyeing Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton, a $100 million talent, as a high-impact addition to bolster their interior presence and support superstar Jayson Tatum in Boston’s championship quest.

The rumor, first hinted at by ESPN insider Brian Windhorst, has gained momentum over recent days as the Celtics front office continues to explore ways to keep their championship window wide open. The 2024-25 season will be one of heightened expectations following Boston’s recent success, and team president Brad Stevens is determined not to let momentum slip.

Why Claxton?

Nic Claxton, who re-signed with the Brooklyn Nets earlier this offseason on a four-year, $100 million contract, has emerged as one of the most versatile and efficient centers in the league. Known for his elite rim protection, switchable defense, and improved offensive game, Claxton averaged 11.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game during the 2023-24 campaign. He also shot a career-high 62.5% from the field, showing marked improvement in his finishing around the rim.

At 25 years old, Claxton fits the Celtics’ competitive timeline. With Boston’s current core—Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis—already championship-caliber, adding a player of Claxton’s defensive prowess could cement them as frontrunners once again in the Eastern Conference.

While Kristaps Porzingis has proven to be a potent offensive weapon and shot-blocking presence, injury concerns still linger. Claxton’s durability and ability to anchor a defense would provide much-needed insurance for Boston’s frontcourt.

The Trade Logistics

Pulling off a deal of this magnitude won’t be easy. The Nets are reportedly reluctant to move Claxton, especially after committing to him as part of their future. However, with Brooklyn currently retooling their roster and seeking young assets or draft capital, there could be a path to an agreement.

Boston has several movable pieces that could sweeten the pot. Reserve big men like Al Horford—who may be nearing retirement—and Payton Pritchard, plus draft picks, might be packaged in a multi-team deal. There’s also speculation that Boston may consider moving Malcolm Brogdon, whose role was reduced last season.

Financially, matching Claxton’s salary in a deal is possible but would require a careful balancing act to stay within the luxury tax constraints. Brad Stevens has proven creative before, such as last year’s midseason maneuvering to land Jrue Holiday.

Supporting Jayson Tatum

The motivation behind this reported pursuit is clear: maximizing Jayson Tatum’s prime. The 26-year-old forward is coming off an MVP-caliber season and is widely considered one of the top five players in the league. With Tatum under contract through 2026, the Celtics are in win-now mode.

Tatum has carried a heavy burden on both ends of the floor, especially during deep playoff runs. While his scoring and playmaking continue to improve, Boston’s offense has at times become stagnant when Tatum sits. Adding a lob threat and high-efficiency player like Claxton could create more space for Tatum to operate and relieve some of the scoring pressure.

In addition, Claxton’s ability to switch defensively would allow Boston to lean into its identity as one of the league’s top defensive units. Lineups featuring Holiday, Brown, Tatum, Claxton, and Derrick White would be a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Nets’ Perspective

From the Brooklyn side, the rumored interest suggests the Nets are listening, even if not aggressively shopping Claxton. Brooklyn’s front office, led by GM Sean Marks, is reportedly evaluating offers for several veterans, including Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O’Neale. While Claxton is not being openly shopped, the team may consider high-value offers that accelerate their rebuild.

After a disappointing 32-50 season in 2023-24, Brooklyn is prioritizing flexibility and asset accumulation. Trading Claxton—though painful—might open opportunities to develop younger players or pursue other stars down the road.

Still, league sources stress that any Claxton trade would require “a major return” given his age, production, and contract value.

Tatum and Brown’s Input

Both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have been involved in Celtics’ personnel discussions in the past, and it wouldn’t be surprising if their voices carry weight here. Both stars have voiced the importance of surrounding themselves with elite defenders and complementary talent.

A source close to Tatum told The Ringer, “JT wants guys who are dogs—who fight, who grind on defense. Claxton fits that mold.”

Brown echoed similar sentiments after the 2024 playoffs: “Defense travels. You can’t win in this league without getting stops when it matters most.”

Their backing could influence the front office’s aggression in making a deal happen.

Potential Impact on the East

If the Celtics land Claxton, it would likely shift the balance of power further in their favor. The Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and Philadelphia 76ers are all contenders in the East, but none would match Boston’s depth, defensive ceiling, or offensive versatility with Claxton in the mix.

Matchups against Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, or even Bam Adebayo would become far less daunting with both Claxton and Porzingis available to protect the rim.

Moreover, Claxton’s mobility would give Boston the ability to close games with small-ball or traditional lineups, adapting on the fly based on opponents’ strengths.

Though still in the rumor phase, the idea of the Celtics acquiring Nic Claxton is not without merit—and it fits their current championship timeline. With Tatum at the peak of his powers and Boston determined to stay ahead of their rivals, an aggressive move could be on the horizon.

Whether the Nets ultimately let go of their young center remains uncertain, but where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire in the NBA. If Brad Stevens and the Celtics find a way to add Claxton to their roster, the league may once again be chasing Boston when it matters most—in June.