The Boston Celtics are actively seeking to fill a significant gap at the center position after parting ways with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. With Al Horford's future uncertain and Luke Kornet also gone, the Celtics are left with a glaring need for a reliable big man. They have brought on Luka Garza but are exploring further options.

Recent reports indicate that the Houston Rockets are waiving Jock Landale, an Australian center who has shown potential but struggled for consistent minutes last season. His impressive 42.3% shooting from beyond the arc may attract Boston's interest as they look to enhance their roster.

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move by signing Deandre Ayton to a two-year contract, hoping he will bolster their center position with a reliable rim-running threat and strong rebounding skills. This addition comes as the team aims to enhance its depth at center, especially given the resurgence of the position in the league. With Ayton anticipated to log around 30 minutes per game, the Lakers are still on the lookout for a second dependable center.

Despite rumors surrounding the potential departure of Jaxson Hayes, he has agreed to a one-year deal to return for a third season. Hayes’ playing time was reduced during the playoffs, where he averaged only 19.5 minutes per game during the regular season, but his role as a backup to Ayton could provide him a fresh opportunity to contribute. The Lakers are also eyeing veteran Al Horford, but competition from teams like the Golden State Warriors could complicate this effort.

The New York Knicks continue to navigate their quest for an elusive championship, a journey fraught with ups and downs that often tests their loyal fanbase's patience. The latest jab came not from rival fans but from Wyc Grousbeck, the owner of the Boston Celtics, who taunted Knicks fans during a panel discussion, referencing the Celtics' championship rings. His remark highlighted the longstanding rivalry and frustrations Knicks fans face.

Meanwhile, the Celtics' franchise has recently made headlines for being sold for a staggering $6.1 billion, the largest deal in North American sports history, a stark reminder of the financial might that often accompanies success.

At 39, Al Horford remains a top big man in free agency following a season with the Boston Celtics where he averaged 9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. Rumors about his retirement are swirling, but interest from teams like the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers keeps his market alive. With the Lakers signing Deandre Ayton, the Warriors seem poised to land Horford, as confirmed by ESPN's Brian Windhorst. Bill Simmons predicts Horford's move to Golden State is a foregone conclusion given their urgent need for a center after losing Kevon Looney.

Horford's veteran presence and floor-spacing ability would be valuable for the Warriors, who have struggled to find a legitimate big man since Marreese Speights. While retirement remains an option for Horford, it appears that a new chapter with the Warriors is on the horizon.

The Boston Celtics are navigating a quiet offseason following significant trades involving Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, with a focus on maneuvering under the NBA's second tax apron. While they have added players like Luka Garza and Josh Minott, the team is rumored to explore further trades to maintain financial flexibility. Key players such as Anfernee Simons, Georges Niang, Sam Hauser, Derrick White, and Jaylen Brown are being considered for potential trades to help the Celtics get under the salary cap constraints.

Despite speculation, reports suggest that Boston is unlikely to part ways with White or Brown, as their contributions are seen as crucial in the upcoming season. The Celtics' strategy could involve rerouting new acquisitions or expanding recent trades to achieve the necessary financial adjustments. The team remains slightly over the tax apron and is expected to continue making moves to align their roster and payroll more favorably.