The Boston Celtics are gearing up for free agency, but their options at center are limited. With several key players already re-signed, the Celtics are left with a void at the center position, as Nikola Vucevic is expected to depart. The team will have access to their full mid-level exception, allowing them to aim higher than last season's veteran's minimum. However, they lack the spending power to pursue big-name centers like Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler.
The Celtics are in need of big help, and they will have to look at the free agent and trade market for solutions. Here's a breakdown of some potential options for the team:
Mid-Level Exception Players
Mitchell Robinson (Knicks): Robinson is a strong rebounder and defender, but he's not a significant offensive threat. The Celtics would need to offer a substantial portion of their mid-level exception and years to secure his services. The Knicks owner's commitment to not exceeding the second apron could push Robinson to explore other options.
Sandro Mamukelashvili (Raptors): Mamukelashvili is a solid rebounder and scorer, but his defense is a liability. He's expected to command a starting salary north of $10 million, and the Celtics would need to offer a significant portion of their mid-level exception to attract him.
Marvin Bagley (Mavericks): Bagley has struggled with injuries and hasn't played meaningful basketball for two years. He provides scoring punch but lacks defensive prowess. The Celtics might not need to offer much more than the minimum for his services.
Jaxson Hayes (Lakers): Hayes has played on a minimum contract with the Lakers and has Bird Rights, making him a reasonable option. The Celtics would need to make a real bid for a portion of the mid-level exception to acquire him.
Kevon Looney (Pelicans): Looney is a strong rebounder and defender but is close to a zero offensively. He's a buy-low candidate, and the Celtics are rumored to be interested in him, potentially offering the minimum or close to it.
Moe Wagner (Magic): Wagner had a successful stint with the Celtics in 2021 but suffered a torn ACL in 2025, leading to a decline in his play. The Nets are rumored to want to sign him, and his outside shooting ability could complement Neemias Queta in the center rotation.
Minimum or Slightly More Shopping Options
Andre Drummond (76ers): Drummond is a strong rebounder and occasional 3-point shooter, but he's 32 years old and still deals with defensive limitations. The Celtics might not need to offer much more than the minimum for his services.
Zach Collins (Bulls): Collins has played sparingly in the last two seasons and is set for a significant paycut. He's only 28 years old and might have some upside, making him a potential bargain.
Nick Richards (Bulls): Richards has bounced around with three teams and is a decent rim runner, but he's underwhelming on the defensive end and lacks a real shooting range. The Celtics might not need to offer much more than the minimum for his services.
Kelly Olynyk (Spurs): Olynyk has earned substantial paydays since 2017 despite a decline in his play as he enters his mid-30s. He's a great facilitator but might not be worth the high salary he's commanded in the past.
The Celtics' free agency strategy will depend on their ability to navigate the limited options and make the most of their mid-level exception. With a need for big help, the team will have to carefully consider their choices and potentially make some bold moves to strengthen their center position.
