NBA Rumors: Celtics, Anfernee Simons, Clippers, Ivica Zubac, Pacers

Celtics

The Celtics continue to draw a firm line when it comes to Anfernee Simons.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Boston has been unwilling to attach a first-round pick to Simons in order to simply move off his contract for tax relief. That stance could change in a deal that brings back a clear rotation-level upgrade, but not in a straight salary dump.

Scotto adds that the Celtics are also resistant to taking back multiyear money in any Simons deal. In that context, players like Day’Ron Sharpe or Ziaire Williams would be more appealing than Terance Mann, who is owed $31.5 million over the two seasons after this one.

Clippers

Despite steady interest from around the league, the Clippers are not signaling a sell-off.

Center Ivica Zubac has drawn attention from multiple teams, but after winning seven of their last eight games, the Clippers are showing little urgency to move him.

Earlier in the season, league chatter suggested it would take at least two first-round picks for L.A. to seriously engage.

Both the Pacers and Celtics have previously expressed interest in Zubac, per Scotto.

Pacers

Indiana, meanwhile, continues to cast a wide net in its search for a long-term answer at center.

In addition to Zubac, the Pacers have checked in on Nic Claxton (Nets), Yves Missi (Pelicans), Daniel Gafford (Mavericks), and Walker Kessler (Jazz), league sources told Scotto.