Celtics Eye Day’Ron Sharpe as Trade Rumors Heat Up
The Boston Celtics are refining their roster identity, and as the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, it appears that a blockbuster move might not be in the cards. With the calendar now reading 2026, the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation about the team’s direction, though much can change in the coming weeks.
Staying the Course with Current Roster
According to insights from MassLive’s Brian Robb, Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens is not inclined to part ways with Anfernee Simons and his $27 million cap hold. This reluctance comes amid discussions about acquiring a big man to bolster the frontcourt alongside Neemias Queta. Rather than pursuing high-profile names like Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers or Daniel Gafford from the Dallas Mavericks, the team may be looking at more cost-effective solutions. The option of sticking with Luka Garza is reportedly still on the table.
Robb elaborated on the situation, noting, “There are some sizable salaries (Ivica Zubac, Daniel Gafford) that would require moving Anfernee Simons along with draft compensation to acquire.” This potential move would necessitate a significant reshuffle of the team’s rotation and risk depleting their cache of draft assets. Given Queta’s impressive play in a starting role, it seems the Celtics are cautious about committing to major changes that might hinder other strategic opportunities.
Evaluating Trade Options
As the trade deadline nears, Simons’ value could be more significant than initially thought, especially if no immediate scoring upgrades present themselves on the market. The landscape is limited in terms of viable additions that wouldn’t burden Boston with long-term financial commitments. Stevens appears to be mindful of this, yet he may reconsider if he believes the Celtics are on the brink of contention.
Day’Ron Sharpe Emerges as a Viable Target
One player who has surfaced as a potential trade asset is Brooklyn Nets center Day’Ron Sharpe. Robb indicates that Sharpe could be a budget-friendly option, especially with the scarcity of stretch bigs available. “One name that surfaced during the offseason… is Nets center Day’Ron Sharpe. He’s a terrific rebounder and showed some solid growth on the offensive end this year (although turnovers remain a problem),” Robb noted. With a salary of just $6 million for this season and next, Sharpe could serve as a dependable backup behind Queta.
As it stands, Queta is the only big man firmly established in Boston’s rotation, leaving room for another player to step in and earn minutes. Garza has struggled defensively, which opens the door for alternative options. Moreover, with Jayson Tatum expected to return before the playoffs, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla may also consider utilizing small-ball lineups. This strategy would allow him to manage the minutes of younger players like Jordan Walsh, Josh Minott, and Hugo Gonzalez, potentially maximizing their development while balancing the team’s playoff aspirations.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Celtics’ plans remain fluid, but the focus seems to be on smart, strategic moves rather than sweeping changes.
