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Celtics Intensify Center Push as Zubac Offer Falters and Gafford, Missi Draw Interest

Boston is balancing a potential splash for a true five with lower‑cost depth using Anfernee Simons’ expiring contract.

Overview

  • Shams Charania says Boston plans to be aggressive in pursuing a starting-caliber center before the Feb. 5, 3 p.m. ET trade deadline.
  • League reporting reveals an earlier Celtics framework for Ivica Zubac built around Anfernee Simons plus a first and a swap that gained no traction as the Clippers grew less inclined to sell.
  • Dallas’s Daniel Gafford is drawing multi-team interest that includes Boston, with a new three-year, $54.3 million deal set to begin next season after his $14.3 million salary this year.
  • New Orleans center Yves Missi is attracting widespread inquiries, with reports of frustration over reduced minutes, a low-cost rookie deal, and differing valuations ranging from multiple seconds to a 2026 first.
  • Simons’ $27.6 million expiring contract is Boston’s primary trade chip as it weighs premium targets like Zubac, Gafford, and Nic Claxton against cheaper options such as Day’Ron Sharpe or Andre Drummond.