With the conclusion of the 2025 NBA Finals, the spotlight now shifts to the upcoming NBA Draft set for Wednesday, as teams look to shape their rosters for the next season. Notably, blockbuster trades involving players like Desmond Bane and Kevin Durant have already set the tone for a dynamic offseason.
Among those making significant moves is the Boston Celtics, who are under pressure to manage their salary cap. Following the unfortunate news that star player Jayson Tatum is expected to miss the entirety of the next season due to a ruptured Achilles tendon, the Celtics find themselves in a period of uncertainty.
ESPN recently highlighted potential trades that could help the Celtics cut costs while also planning for the future. One notable idea discussed by NBA insider Bobby Marks involved a salary dump of Kristaps Porzingis alongside the No. 28 overall pick to the Brooklyn Nets; however, Marks deemed this option unlikely as it may not significantly benefit the Celtics long-term.
The suggested trades included:
1. **Trade 1**: The Boston Celtics would acquire forward P.J. Washington Jr. from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for guard Jrue Holiday. The deal would also see the Dallas Mavericks and Brooklyn Nets involved, with the Mavericks receiving guard Jaden Hardy and forward Caleb Martin, plus a 2027 first-round pick from the Celtics, while the Nets would gain Olivier-Maxence Prosper from the Clippers.
2. **Trade 2**: The Celtics could also look to secure center Duop Reath from the Portland Trail Blazers, offering forward Sam Hauser, center Xavier Tillman, and a future second-round pick in return.
According to Marks, these trades could save the Celtics over $300 million when accounting for luxury tax and salary savings. Acquiring Washington and Reath would not only provide additional rotational depth but also address potential gaps left by free agents Al Horford and Luke Kornet.
However, parting with a 2027 first-round pick in the Holiday deal raises concerns for the Celtics’ front office, especially as they have reportedly been seeking a first-round selection in discussions about Holiday. This means the team must carefully weigh the potential value of Washington against the loss of an impactful player and a future pick.
In light of these developments, the Celtics are expected to be actively exploring various roster adjustments as the draft approaches and free agency opens, indicating a busy and potentially transformative period for the franchise.
As the Celtics navigate the challenges ahead, fans can remain optimistic about the possibilities that come with new talent and strategic trades that may strengthen the team for the future.