Insider: Celtics Have "Significant Trade Interest" In Western Conference Big Man

The Boston Celtics sit atop the entire NBA with a 33-12 mark, 4.5 games clear of the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets in the East. And their frontline has been stabilized with the return of Robert Williams III the past few weeks. 

But according to a new report from NBA Insider Shams Charania, they're not standing pat, as he says they've shown "significant trade interest" in San Antonio Spurs center Jakob Poeltl. Shams also confirms many earlier reports this season of the Toronto Raptors' continued interest in their former big man. 

Spurs C Jakob Poeltl has gained “significant trade” interest from the Boston Celtics, according to @ShamsCharania.

pic.twitter.com/0SSTh2mlom

— Beyond the Monster (@BeyondtheMnstr) January 17, 2023

The 7'1", 245-pound Austrian has ascended into a formidable force in the middle the past couple of years, maintaining a scoring average in the 12-13 points per game range, with 9.4 rebounds, and well over a blocked shot per game. 

Poeltl would represent a significant upgrade over Luke Kornet as a center to add to the frontcourt mix for the Celtics along with Al Horford and Williams. Adding that kind of size to this roster could be the final piece for the Celtics to make a championship run.

The Spurs love Poeltl, but he's a flight risk, as he finishes out the final year of his contract that pays him $9.4M this year. In free agency this summer, the big man stands to earn a significant raise. He's certainly a top trade candidate as we approach the Feb. 9th deadline.

Photo: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports