The Boston Celtics parted ways with several key players from their recent championship squad this offseason, prompted by financial limitations and Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury, which altered the team’s 2025–26 outlook. While Boston managed to gain assets through trades, some players left in free agency without any return.
One of those departures was quick to secure a lucrative deal elsewhere but his role on his new team may not unfold as expected.
Kornet Could Struggle to Meet Expectations with Spurs After $40 Million Deal
Luke Kornet signed a four-year, $40.7 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs this summer, initially projected to be the primary backup to star center Victor Wembanyama. However, that role is now far from guaranteed following recent roster changes.
The Spurs acquired veteran big man Kelly Olynyk in a trade with the Washington Wizards, adding serious competition to Kornet’s spot in the rotation. Olynyk, a former Gonzaga standout, brings playoff experience and a history of starting roles something Kornet lacks in comparison.
Even with Gregg Popovich stepping away from coaching and into a full-time front office role, San Antonio remains a team that bases playing time on performance. That means Kornet will need to hit the ground running to justify his new deal, especially since only $24 million of the contract is guaranteed.
If Kornet underperforms early, he could quickly lose minutes to Olynyk, who’s more than capable of stepping into a bigger role. For Kornet, the pressure is on to prove he belongs in the Spurs’ long-term plans—otherwise, he may end up disappointing both the team and its fans.
