DHJ Quick Take: Celtics’ Deadline Pursuit of Gobert
- A Failed Deadline Blockbuster: The Boston Celtics attempted to trade for Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert at the February 2026 NBA trade deadline, though a deal ultimately failed to materialize.
- The Pivot to Vučević: With Gobert remaining in Minnesota, Boston pivoted to reinforce its frontcourt by acquiring Nikola Vučević from the Chicago Bulls instead.
- Gobert’s Elite Production & Contract: The four-time Defensive Player of the Year anchored Minnesota this season by averaging 10.9 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game and he is scheduled to earn $36.5 million next season ahead of a $38 million player option.
The Boston Celtics tried to trade for Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
This took place at the 2026 February NBA trade deadline.
“Sources say that Boston, furthermore, has inquired about Gobert before … most recently at February’s trade deadline,” Fischer wrote.
Gobert remained with Minnesota, while Boston acquired Nikola Vučević from the Chicago Bulls.
The Celtics, despite taking a 3-1 lead against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of this year’s playoffs, lost in seven games. Meanwhile, Gobert and the Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in the first round but lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the second round.
A four-time Defensive Player of the Year, Gobert averaged 10.9 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game this season while shooting 68.2% from the field. He recorded 33 double-doubles.
Gobert will make $36.5 million next season. The three-time All-Star has a player option worth $38 million for the 2027-28 season.
While nothing can be ruled out in today’s NBA, especially after the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Timberwolves are not expected to trade Gobert this summer.
Gobert has played for the Utah Jazz and Timberwolves. He enters next season with career averages of 12.5 points, 11.7 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game.
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