Jaden Springer has officially been traded from the Boston Celtics to the Houston Rockets as the team gears up for the upcoming trade deadline. According to sources, Boston is sending Springer, alongside a 2030 second-round pick, to the Rockets while also exchanging heavily protected second-round picks. The move was initially reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
At just 22 years old, Springer had previously been acquired by the Celtics from the Philadelphia 76ers during last year’s deadline. While he was seen as a promising addition, he struggled to find his footing in Boston, failing to secure a roster spot after training camp. Despite showing potential defensively in recent weeks, he was unable to make a significant impact offensively.
The Rockets, currently surprising many with a record of 32-18 and standing third in the Western Conference, present an opportunity for Springer to carve out a role and make a positive contribution moving forward. With a salary of $4 million in the final year of his rookie deal, moving Springer allows the Celtics to alleviate their payroll concerns, particularly as they face luxury tax repeater penalties exceeding $16 million. This decision likely opens up space for new acquisitions via trade or the buyout market in the near future.
This change not only benefits the Celtics financially but also gives Springer a fresh start in Houston, where he will have the chance to develop further on a competitive team. It’s a hopeful scenario for both players and teams involved, as Springer seeks to define his career and the Celtics aim to bolster their championship-contending roster.