As the NBA offseason approaches, the Boston Celtics find themselves at a crossroads, weighing potential roster changes. With an eye on the future and financial flexibility, the organization is considering which players could be moved to shape the team for upcoming seasons.
Among the players frequently mentioned as trade candidates, Jrue Holiday stands out due to his contract and performance. Despite being a key contributor, the franchise may explore options to trade him, especially with three years and over $100 million remaining on his deal. Making a transition now could allow Boston to recalibrate their roster, especially if the ownership is looking to reduce costs while maintaining a competitive edge.
Xavier Tillman is another name on the trade discussion list as Boston assesses the team’s priorities. While his guaranteed salary provides a chance for slight tax relief, his role on the team is less clearly defined moving forward. The franchise may see an opportunity to package Tillman in a deal that could bring back a more impactful player, addressing their needs on both ends of the court.
Sam Hauser also enters the conversation as the team reevaluates its depth and skill set. With his position in the rotation becoming less stable, Hauser’s expiring contract could make him a viable piece in a trade to acquire either more established talent or future draft picks. The need for secondary ball-handling and scoring can quickly shift priorities, prompting the Celtics to consider all avenues for improvement.
Boston Celtics Predicted To Move 3 NBA Players During The Offseason
Brooklyn is expected to trade either Tillman, Hauser, Holiday, or all three of them during the offseason. This is detailed more in an analysis by Dan Favale for Bleacher Report.
“Wiping off Tillman’s guaranteed salary for (slight) tax relief and the prospect of signing a cheaper-minimum guy is the kind of bookkeeping that seems up Boston’s alley. After that, every potential inclusion jumps the shark,” Favale wrote.
“Hauser beats out Payton Pritchard because he makes slightly more and his place in the rotation is less stable when Boston is at full strength. Rather than round this out with Pritchard, an aging Holiday and the three years and $104.4 million left on his deal make the cut if the Celtics are looking to cut costs ahead of the 2026 offseason guesstimate,” he added.
As discussions unfold, the fate of these players will play a critical role in shaping the team’s roster dynamics. Balancing the desire to contend now with the necessity for long-term sustainability will define the organization’s strategy.
Ultimately, whether through bold trades or careful adjustments, the Celtics are poised to make significant moves as they aim to position themselves for success in the increasingly competitive NBA landscape. If they do the offseason right, the franchise may have the chance to create a dynasty in the years to come.
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