3-party trading simulation allows Celtics to win future center

In the proposed three-team trading plan envisioned by Eric Pincar of Bleacher Report, the Celtics, Heat and Jazz can all meet the main offseason needs while reshaping the trajectory of the lineup. With the Celtics looking at cap relief and future big men, the Heat are looking for offensive impact while the Jazz are preparing for a restructuring, a deal that could have a rare result that will leave all three teams with satisfaction.

Celtics: Kessler, $27.7 million trade special (Anthony Simmons)

Jazz: Rozier, Jax Jr., Quita, 2026 Celtics protected first round, 2026 Celtics second round, 2029 Heat protected first round swap, $5.5 million (via Celtics), $4.9 million trade special (Kessler)

Heat: Simmons, Tony, $3.9 million trade special (Jacques)

Celtics win a center in the next few years

Celtics are welcoming a transition year. The team has moved from scrambling to cap management as Tatum will miss the entire 2025-26 season after a torn Achilles tendon. Earlier in the summer, the firing of Holiday and Porzingis saved a huge salary, but more cuts were needed to get out of the trap of duplicate tax penalties.

Kesler appeared, a cost-controlled, defensive-first center, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks last season. Kessler will immediately become the starting big man in Boston, Al Horford is expected to leave, and Luke Cornett is now with the Spurs. He is also eligible for a contract renewal, meaning Boston can lock in long-term value or put him in a restricted free agent market.

Anfini Simmons makes room to avoid a potential bidding war in 2026. Simmons' fit with Boston has always been questionable, especially with White and Pritchard already in the backcourt. Receiving a $27.7 million deal exception in return also gives Boston the flexibility to reorganize next summer. The Celtics have now slightly downgraded their talent ratings, but have become younger, cheaper and stayed under taxes, preparing themselves for a bigger sensation when Tatum returns in 2026.

Heat got another explosive scorer

Simmons' trip to Miami is probably not the most obvious move, especially after getting Powell. But in fact, Simmons is better suited to Spolstra's ever-evolving offense in the long run than Powell. While Powell is a tried and tested sixth man entering the final year of his contract, Simmons is a 26-year-old flamethrower with elite scoring abilities and room to grow as the core of the organization.

Simmons averaged 21.3 points and 5.7 assists for Portland last season, despite being plagued by injuries. He provided Miami with a much-needed second-scoring guard, partnering with Herro, especially after Butler left. Although Herro has always been stable, he cannot take on all the offensive responsibilities. Simmons added a dynamic shooting creator who can play with or without the ball. The acquisition of Tony at a minimum deal and creating a $3.9 million deal exception provides Miami with greater roster flexibility. If Simmons performs well, they can offer a delay. If not, they will remain capped for 2026. The Jazz are not close to competition for future assets, and must decide whether it is worth paying Kessler a large sum of money next summer. If management led by Anji believes that reconstruction is a better road, then it is time to sell at a high price. Rozier provides Utah with an experienced guard who can be flipped by deadline or cut before opening night. His contract is only partially guaranteed, so they can absorb him through existing exceptions without having a long-term impact on the ceiling. More importantly, they got Jax Jr. and Quita, a gritty two-way forward with untapped offensive potential. The Jazz also received two 2026 draft picks and could have a first-round swap with Miami in 2029. This collection of assets fits perfectly with Utah’s long-term vision. Trading Kessler now before a potentially tough 2025-26 season ensures that the Jazz maximizes value. If his production drops in a failed team, retaining him may reduce trading leverage.

This transaction proposal is a fully adjusted risk for all parties. The Celtics won a long-term center, saving nearly $100 million. The Heat got a dynamic scorer that fits their ever-evolving timeline. The Jazz cashed in valuable trade chips in exchange for draft picks, prospects and flexibility.