As the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, the Boston Celtics are emerging as a team to watch. Despite preseason expectations of a step back, Boston has remained firmly in the Eastern Conference picture and appears positioned as a buyer rather than a seller.
Even without Jayson Tatum for stretches and following the offseason departures of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, the Celtics have stayed competitive. That success has reportedly prompted the front office, led by Brad Stevens, to explore upgrades, particularly at the center position.
Any move Boston considers is expected to balance immediate impact with long-term value. One name that has surfaced in that context is Myles Turner of the Milwaukee Bucks. Celtics analyst John Karalis has identified Turner as a possible fit if Milwaukee decides to reshuffle its roster.
Turner would address several needs for Boston. Defensively, he offers proven rim protection, and offensively he can space the floor with reliable three-point shooting. Those traits would complement Boston’s core and project well alongside Tatum and Jaylen Brown both this season and beyond.
Milwaukee signed Turner this past offseason to a four-year, $108.8 million contract in an effort to stabilize the roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, with uncertainty surrounding Antetokounmpo’s long-term future, the Bucks could eventually consider moving veterans as part of a broader reset.
Through 44 games this season, the 29-year-old Turner is averaging 13 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.6 assists per game while shooting 43.6 percent from the field and 39 percent from three-point range. Those numbers underscore his value as a modern center capable of contributing on both ends of the floor.
From Boston’s perspective, Turner’s age and skill set make him an appealing target. The primary question would be cost. His contract and the assets required to acquire him may ultimately prove too steep, especially given Boston’s cap considerations.
There is no indication yet that the Celtics are actively pursuing Turner, but the concept aligns with Stevens’ history of exploring bold roster moves. As the deadline nears, Boston is expected to remain involved in trade discussions, and Turner is a name worth monitoring should Milwaukee make him available.
