A center upgrade is in demand for the Celtics as Jayson Tatum’s return nears

Amist trading season, The Boston Celtics have reportedly been linked with the centers which might be available sooner NBA trade deadlineas Jayson Tatum the upcoming return is withheld. With the second-best record in the Eastern Conference, the Celtics (29-17) are reportedly interested in joining a potential title roster. However, Boston could settle for a smaller big man who could make a blockbuster move.

Still, the Celtics are a a team to watch out for heading into the deadline, especially given Tatum’s return after the All-Star break, as noted by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, according to Clutch Scoops .

“All indications from Boston right now are that they’re comfortable keeping their roster as it is and potentially upgrading. And what I mean by that is they try to find a low-contract player that can come in and contribute to this team. What they believe could be a title run when Jayson Tatum comes back after the All-Star break,” Siegel said.

If the Celtics make a move at the deadline, it would likely rule out a trade in the way a bigger contract, such as backup guard Anfernee Simmons, would.

“So what names could potentially make sense there. Obviously, Dai’Ron Sharpe is on a smaller contract. You could maneuver some things without giving up Anfernee Simmons,” Siegel added. “Then maybe go back to the name we mentioned earlier, Yves Missy, from the New Orleans Pelicans. He’s still on a rookie contract, and maybe that’s an impressive player they could get at center.”

The NBA trade deadline is February 5th.

Jayson Tatum is struggling to return to the Celtics

In a recent candid interview, the Celtics All-Star Jayson Tatum opened up about his potential comeback from his Achilles tendon rupture. For Tatum, returning while most of the team is already in the thick of things and likely close to the postseason has him questioning should he stay out until next season, he said, according to The Pivot.

“It’s something I think about every day,” Tatum said. “More about the team. If or when I come back this season, it’s like they’d go 50 or so games without me. So they have an identity this year or things they felt helped them, and it’s been successful, right? Third team in the East so far.”

It will be interesting to see if the Celtics are active before the trade deadline, and if or when we’ll see a timetable for Tatum’s return.