NBA trade rumors: Boston Celtics eye $15 million ex-Charlotte Hornets star to bolster frontcourt after major offseason trades

The Boston Celtics could be setting their sights on Phoenix Suns’ center Nick Richards as part of a calculated effort to remain competitive following the high-profile departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis.

The rumor, which has gained traction across league circles, points to Boston’s search for affordable frontcourt depth and financial balance heading into the 2025-26 NBA season.

Boston Celtics’ Offseason Shake-Up and Financial Context

During the 2025 offseason, Boston Celtics’ front office made two major cost-cutting moves - sending Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers and Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks in a three-team deal. These transactions were primarily motivated by salary cap management rather than performance issues.Before the trades, Boston’s guaranteed contracts exceeded $227 million, with total costs ballooning past $500 million due to luxury-tax penalties. Offloading those salaries, which included roughly $28 million from Holiday and Porzingis, allowed the Celtics to dip below the NBA’s second luxury tax apron. This maneuver granted them crucial breathing room and flexibility for future roster moves.

However, while the trades solved financial headaches, they also created new on-court challenges - most notably at the center position.

The Boston Celtics currently rely on Luka Garza and Neemias Queta as their primary big men, but both lack the ideal blend of rim protection, rebounding, and offensive versatility needed to anchor a championship-caliber lineup.

Why Nick Richards Fits Boston’s Game Plan

Nick Richards, a 7-foot center now playing for the Phoenix Suns, checks several boxes for Boston. On an expiring contract worth just $5 million, Richards fits the team’s fiscal restraint while offering the interior toughness that their current roster lacks.His strengths lie in rebounding, paint scoring, and rim defense. Over the past four seasons, Richards has maintained an impressive 65% field goal percentage, ranking him among the most efficient scoring centers inside the paint.

Nick Richards 2024-25 Season Snapshot

Nick Richards’ production and physicality make him an ideal “bridge player” - someone who can stabilize the frontcourt while Boston nurtures younger prospects and awaits Jayson Tatum’s return from injury. His traditional center style also contrasts well with Garza’s floor-spacing approach, giving the Celtics more tactical flexibility.Richards fits Boston’s medium-term plans as a bridge player to help stabilize the frontcourt while the Boston Celtics develop younger options and navigate Jayson Tatum’s injury absence.

Boston’s Current Roster and Competitive Outlook

Despite losing two core players, Boston remains anchored by Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Guard Payton Pritchard is also expected to assume greater offensive responsibility this season. Management’s focus is on fielding a balanced and cost-efficient roster that can still compete in the wide-open Eastern Conference.

Key Roster Core: • Jaylen Brown • Derrick White • Payton Pritchard • Luka Garza • Neemias QuetaAcquiring Richards would immediately strengthen the Celtics’ interior defense and rebounding without compromising their payroll. It also aligns with Brad Stevens’ ongoing approach - prioritizing short-term flexibility over long-term financial strain.

The Suns’ Trade Stance and Market Dynamics

The Phoenix Suns appear open to parting ways with Richards. Initially brought in as a depth piece during their aggressive roster reshuffling around stars like Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, Richards has since become expendable amid the franchise’s pivot toward rebuilding.Phoenix’s willingness to trade Richards presents Boston with a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. Yet the Boston Celtics aren’t the only team in pursuit. Reports suggest the Los Angeles Lakers have also expressed interest in acquiring Nick Richards, joining a growing list of contenders seeking affordable, reliable big men.

Teams Linked to Nick Richards Trade Talks

The Boston Celtics’ rumored pursuit of Nick Richards makes strategic sense both financially and competitively.

After shedding massive contracts from Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the team is navigating a delicate balance between staying under the luxury tax and maintaining playoff contention.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Boston Celtics predicted to land $186 million Milwaukee Bucks superstar to form deadly duo with Jayson TatumRichards’ combination of size, efficiency, and low salary makes him a natural fit for Boston’s immediate needs. As the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, expect the Boston Celtics to remain active in trade discussions - eyeing opportunities like Nick Richards to solidify their roster and stay in the Eastern Conference mix.