After the Boston Celtics fell to the New York Knicks in the postseason, many believed it not only signaled the end of the Celtics’ title quest this season but also for the next, especially with Jayson Tatum sustaining an Achilles tear during Game 4 and the team’s looming luxury tax issues. The Eastern Conference is also growing stronger, with teams such as the Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and Cleveland Cavaliers all looking ready to take the next step.
While Celtics faithful still believed a team centered around Jaylen Brown and Joe Mazzulla’s coaching could compete, the decision to trade Jrue Holiday suggests Boston is planning to shake things up before the season starts, a notion further confirmed by the latest report from Celtics beat reporter Jay King.
Celtics Big Man Could Be the Next To Be Traded
Not even 24 hours have passed since the trade that sent Jrue Holiday to Portland in return for Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks, and the Celtics are already looking to move another star. While the Holiday trade provided relief to the Celtics’ tight finances, the team still finds itself above the second apron. And with the Celtics aiming to stay competitive in Tatum’s absence, trade restrictions certainly don’t help.
The Celtics are still trying to trade Kristaps Porziņģis even after dealing Jrue Holiday to Portland, sources tell @ByJayKing.
Sources believe the Holiday trade will be only the first domino to fall for Boston, who is looking get under the salary cap’s second apron. pic.twitter.com/ArAlQYA6Yg
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) June 24, 2025
Jay King reported the Celtics are actively trying to trade Kristaps Porziņģis, who will be in the second year of a two-year, $60 million contract next season. With league interest heating up, it could be a smooth transaction for Boston. Per NBA insider Jake Fischer, the San Antonio Spurs have had “exploratory talks” regarding a Porziņģis trade. And since Porziņģis wouldn’t require a package as heavy as Kevin Durant’s, he is also an ideal fit for the Phoenix Suns, who are looking to fill the hole KD left.
The Suns reportedly performed “background work” on the Latvian forward last week and indicate a trade for Porziņģis might be near. The trade won’t just help Boston reduce its financial restrictions but also help acquire young talent. This way, the Celtics won’t just have the potential to compete this season but also extend their championship window.
One thing is certain: Celtics GM Brad Stevens has been busy in the trade market. Shipping away high earners to acquire budding talents such as Simons could also be a move to avoid unnecessary financial hits in Tatum’s absence. However, whether the Celtics remain competitive depends on the Porziņģis trade. It will be interesting to see what Boston can get in return.
