Celtics Rumors: Jakob Poeltl Trade with Spurs Considered Unlikely Before Deadline

With their center situation set for the next few years, the Boston Celtics may not be a serious contender for San Antonio Spurs big man Jakob Poeltl.

The Athletic's Jay King reported Thursday that people around the NBA "downplayed the likelihood of a Poeltl acquisition" for Boston. That's in part because the Celtics have Al Horford signed through 2024-25, while Robert Williams III is under contract through 2025-26.

Poeltl is on an expiring deal and set to become a free agent in the summer.

The 27-year-old is having another strong season, one that has increased what he's likely to earn on his next deal. Through 39 games, he's averaging 12.1 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks while shooting 62.8 percent from the floor.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Jan. 21 that Poeltl "will be seeking a new deal in the $20 million range annually."

That's a bit steep considering only nine centers in the NBA are signed for $20 million or more in 2023-24. But the 7-footer figures to at least get a nice raise from his $9.4 million salary this year.

The Celtics would have to factor that alongside the cost of acquiring Poeltl.

Jared Weiss of The Athletic reported on Jan. 18 the Spurs are looking to recoup two first-round picks from the trade. Michael Scotto of HoopsHype followed up Monday to report that San Antonio might realistically only be able to get one first-rounder back.

Still, a first-round pick—even in the mid-to-late stages—is not nothing, especially given Boston's situation. Jaylen Brown only has one more year left on his contract, and re-signing him will mean the Celtics have a lot of their payroll tied up in two players (Brown and Jayson Tatum).

The franchise is already sending out its 2023 first-rounder as part of the Malcolm Brogdon trade. Giving up another future first-round pick means losing another opportunity to land a young player on a cost-controlled contract, which is helpful when filling out the roster around multiple All-Stars.

Unless the Spurs are willing to significantly lower their asking price, it's hard to see how a Poeltl trade makes sense.