Everything changed for the Boston Celtics when Jayson Tatum went down. His torn Achilles ended two seasons all at once. Boston is facing an offseason of hard choices, and that began with tonight’s trade of Jrue Holiday. Now, more questions are being asked: who will the Celtics trade next? And is Jaylen Brown on the block?
Boston’s trade of Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons saved $4.7 million, while giving it some extra scoring punch without Tatum in the fold. GM Brad Stevens will have to clear another $15.3 million for Boston to get under the second apron and get out of cap hell. With this Shams Charania report, it’s clear that those options are being explored.
There are routes that Boston can take that won’t break up the championship core. Kristaps Porzingis is a prime trade candidate, and players like Sam Hauser can be moved to open up more tax space. There is a world where Boston keeps Tatum, Brown, and Derrick White and gets under the second apron. They could take a year off and build to contend with the same group in 2026/27. Right now, they’re eighth in title odds for 2025/26, and that’s not improving anytime soon.
But as calls are being made, the Celtics may consider other options. Brown, 28, has four years and $236 million left on his deal. It’s a hefty amount, but one that could be palatable to the right team. Do the Celtics consider breaking up the core that won a championship just a year ago? Or will they batten down the hatches, make some moves on the edge, and wait for Tatum’s return?
If Shams Charania is right, we will have our answers in the coming days. Stay tuned for more.
