Celtics Reportedly Interested in Trading for Jaren Jackson Jr., Per @HPbasketball
The Boston Celtics are reportedly showing strong interest in Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr., according to NBA insider Matt Moore (@HPbasketball), who noted there is “no team I’ve heard with more interest” in acquiring the 26-year-old big man ahead of the February 5 trade deadline.
Why Jackson Jr. Is on Boston’s Radar
Jackson Jr., a two-time All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year, offers a combination of rim protection, floor spacing, and scoring that the Celtics have lacked in recent years. This season, he is averaging approximately 18.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, while shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc.
For a Celtics team in a win-now mindset, adding a versatile big like Jackson could strengthen their title chances alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Boston’s current lineup has shown resilience, but postseason success often depends on rim protection and interior scoring, areas Jackson could immediately improve.
Potential Trade Package
Reports suggest Boston could offer a pick-heavy package, potentially including players such as Anfernee Simons, Jordan Walsh, Hugo Gonzalez, and multiple first-round picks to match Memphis’ valuation.
While salary matching should not be an issue this season — Jackson is earning roughly $35 million in 2025-26 — his upcoming five-year, $240 million contract extension could complicate Boston’s long-term financial flexibility.
Fit Within Boston’s System
Head coach Joe Mazzulla would likely deploy Jackson as a hybrid power forward/center, leveraging his defensive versatility and shooting in spread lineups. His presence could help address rebounding deficiencies while anchoring the paint on defense.
However, analysts note the trade carries risk. Boston’s limited future draft capital and Jackson’s large contract could restrict flexibility under the NBA’s salary cap, making the move a calculated gamble.
The Big Picture
The chatter around Jackson Jr. reflects the Celtics’ willingness to be aggressive ahead of the trade deadline. With Boston in contention for the Eastern Conference title, acquiring a player of Jackson’s caliber could provide the boost needed for a deeper playoff run.
Whether the Celtics ultimately make a move remains uncertain, but the prospect of pairing Jackson Jr. with Tatum and Brown offers an intriguing look at a potential championship-contending frontcourt.
Is the Trade Real?
Reports linking the Celtics to Jackson Jr. are based on credible NBA sources and insiders, but it is currently a rumor, not a confirmed trade. The Grizzlies currently view Jackson Jr. as a core player, and no official announcement has been made by either team. Trade speculation often increases as the February deadline approaches, but most rumors do not result in actual trades.
