The Boston Celtics have embraced what is functionally a gap year, shedding salary with All-Star forward Jayson Tatum sidelined for the season with an Achilles injury. Nearing a payroll (including luxury taxes) well over $500 million,

While the Celtics have mostly achieved their financial goals, they still have some work to do to build another contending roster for Jayson Tatum’s return in 2026-27. With a rough center situation needing to be addressed, Bleacher Report ’s Eric Pincus proposed a three-team deal that could solve some of the Celtics’ problems.

After falling short of capturing back-to-back titles, the Boston Celtics have gone through a complete makeover this offseason. As they continue to tinker with the roster, one mock trade surfaced where they address a key area of need.