The Boston Celtics enter the 2025 offseason shrouded in uncertainty.
With Jayson Tatum expected to miss the 2025–26 campaign due to a torn Achilles, Celtics GM Brad Stevens might contemplate cutting costs.
Trading fan favorites like Kristaps Porzingis or Jrue Holiday is on the table, but a surprising development concerning the upcoming NBA Draft has turned heads.
The Celtics reportedly decided to interview Duke phenom Cooper Flagg.
Per NBA rules, teams are allowed to interview up to 13 draft prospects, making Boston’s choice to meet with Flagg particularly curious. Flagg, the consensus No. 1 overall pick, is widely expected to be selected by the Dallas Mavericks, who won the draft lottery despite a mere 1.8 percent chance.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Meanwhile, the Celtics hold the No. 28 pick in the first round, rendering Flagg an improbable target.
On a recent episode of The Kevin O’Connor Show, Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor revealed, “I have multiple sources telling me the Celtics interviewed Cooper Flagg.” While O’Connor cautioned that this doesn’t guarantee a trade-up, the move has fueled speculation.
Flagg, an 18-year-old Maine native and lifelong Celtics fan, dazzled at Duke, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while earning National Player of the Year honors. His two-way versatility makes him a potential generational talent.
Some see the interview as due diligence for future trade possibilities, which is the most realistic take among a sea of other insane pundits claiming that Stevens is planning a massive trade up for Flagg centered around Jaylen Brown.
The NBA Draft will take place on June 25.
More NBA: Celtics buzz: Al Horford’s potential Michael Jordan-style retirement