The Boston Celtics are reportedly exploring a bold trade move that could reshape their future title hopes. According to league sources, the Celtics have shown interest in acquiring a former Atlanta Hawks superstar valued at $125 million—a potential blockbuster deal aimed at forming a lethal duo alongside franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum.
While the name of the targeted player has not been officially disclosed, speculation points strongly towards John Collins, a versatile forward who spent multiple seasons with the Hawks before being traded to the Utah Jazz. Collins’ athleticism, scoring touch, and rebounding ability make him a prime candidate to bolster Boston’s frontcourt depth and ease the burden on Tatum, especially with star teammate Jaylen Brown’s future in Boston still uncertain.
What makes this rumored deal even more intriguing is the potential trade asset the Celtics are reportedly willing to part with—Kristaps Porziņģis. After an injury-hampered season, Porziņģis could be included as the centerpiece of the trade package, surprising many within the Celtics fanbase who expected him to remain a core part of the roster.
The Celtics’ front office is said to be aggressively retooling the squad this offseason, especially in light of Jayson Tatum’s Achilles rehab, which could sideline him for up to a year. With salary-cap restrictions tightening, Boston is looking to make calculated moves that ensure long-term competitiveness while giving Tatum a reliable co-star upon his return.
Adding Collins would provide the Celtics with a high-flying interior presence who can stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and complement Tatum’s perimeter game—potentially creating one of the Eastern Conference’s most dangerous inside-out tandems.
As trade talks continue to swirl, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if this surprising shake-up becomes a reality.
