A new rumor about the Minnesota Timberwolves‘ Rudy Gobert replacement plans makes a trade to the Boston Celtics in the next few months even more likely.
Throughout the summer, a top priority for the Celtics reportedly was to upgrade their frontcourt. Specifically, the center spot. While they were linked to different players, they ended up going with New York Knicks backup center Mitchell Robinson as the big addition at that spot. The hope is that he and Neemias Queta can be a strong duo for Boston in 2026-27.
Advertisement
One player that rumors claimed the Celtics had interest in was the three-time All-Star. However, Minnesota allegedly passed on a deal that would send him to Boston in a swap for Jaylen Brown. Yet, while they didn’t move him in the offseason, the Timberwolves look like they are planning to replace him in the near future.
According to Heavy’s Sean Deveny, Minnesota is very high on a backup big man, Joan Beringer. But he is only 19, so they aren’t yet ready to hand him the starting job. However, the switch is coming soon, especially with Gobert having a $38 million player option in the final year of his deal in 2027-28.
Those two factors are why the outlet claims teams around the NBA will continue to “monitor” the situation in the event the 13-year veteran becomes available this season.
You can bet the Celtics are one of those teams who will be watching to see what happens in Minny. While Gobert has seen some age-related slippage in recent seasons, he is still a premier center in the game. The Frenchman’s elite-level rebounding, rim protection, and ability to finish around the basket would be a great addition to the Celtics’ front court.
Advertisement
But what would a trade cost Boston if he were made available during the season? A straight-up trade that sent Derrick White — and probably a future first-round pick — to Minnesota for Gobert would work financially. While the Timberwolves already have a top-notch backcourt, White would certainly be a fantastic acquisition for their bench.
Another route would be a deal after December that includes Robinson, Sam Hauser, a player to be named later, and two future first-round picks for the big man. It would make sense money-wise and offer the Wolves a solid return in the short and long term.
Related Headlines
