5 players the Celtics could target this offseason

Giannis Antetokounmpo will definitely be the speak of the NBA offseason till his house for 2026 and past is solidified. A former MVP, he’s the largest identify that may very well be on the transfer if the Bucks fulfill his needs.

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

Listed below are 5 gamers that Boston might goal exterior of Antetokounmpo this offseason.

Kawhi Leonard

Leonard may very well be a reputation to look at on the commerce block this season, according to sources from NBA reporter Michael Scotto. If that involves fruition, he’d simply be the subsequent finest out there 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. However it’s in all probability value a minimum of kicking the tires with the Clippers to verify on his availability and value.

LeBron James

By way of unrestricted free brokers, James is way and away the largest and finest identify 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 keen to just accept a task 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 an enormous if, contemplating his household is there and his son is his teammate. But when he does go away, he’d definitely be a great match for the Celtics. James has the dimensions to play ahead, however the IQ to be extra of some extent guard.

Boston might feasibly construct a beginning 5 with Derrick White and Jaylen Brown within the again court docket, and James, Jayson Tatum, and Neemias Queta within the entrance court docket whereas permitting James to run level offensively. Having him facilitate would assist resolve the Celtics occasional points enjoying an excessive amount of isolation ball.

James must 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 is perhaps a great touchdown spot for each events.

John Collins

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

At 28 years previous, he averaged 13 factors and 5 rebounds per recreation, taking pictures over 55 % from the sector and 40 % 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 risk.

Collins may command a bigger contract than Boston is keen to supply, relying on what its method can be to the luxurious tax. However his play fashion would appear to suit properly alongside Tatum’s.

Jaxson Hayes

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

Hayes averaged 7.5 factors and 4.1 rebounds per recreation final season enjoying roughly 18 minutes per recreation. Given Queta’s struggles to remain on the court docket 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 wherein he averaged over 17 factors per recreation. His 3-point stroke is comparatively common; he’s a profession 36 % 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 might fill their offensive output.