The Boston Celtics, already active this offseason, made more roster adjustments on Tuesday while continuing to cut costs. They first traded Georges Niang and two second-round picks to the Utah Jazz in exchange for undrafted wing RJ Luis. Shortly after, they signed veteran big man Chris Boucher to a one-year deal.
As with many of their recent moves, these transactions were financially motivated. Offloading Niang’s $8.2 million salary didn’t impact the cap, as Luis will be on a two-way deal, which doesn’t count against it. Boucher’s deal is worth about $3.3 million, though his cap hit will only be around $2.3 million.
These moves leave Boston roughly $8 million under the second luxury tax apron and about $4 million over the first. They’re also around $12 million away from getting completely under the luxury tax threshold, which could bring not just financial savings but strategic flexibility.
Current Depth Chart:
- Guards (3): Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, Anfernee Simons
- Forwards (8): Jaylen Brown, Sam Hauser, Chris Boucher, Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh (non-guaranteed), Josh Minott, Hugo Gonzalez, Jayson Tatum (injured)
- Bigs (3): Neemias Queta, Xavier Tillman, Luka Garza
- Two-Ways (3): Miles Norris, Max Shulga, RJ Luis
Boucher, who likely joined the team expecting playing time, strengthens Boston’s thin frontcourt. The 32-year-old brings experience, having averaged 10 points and 4.5 rebounds for the Raptors last season, while shooting 36.3% from three. He also brings championship pedigree from Toronto’s 2019 title run.
With Niang gone, Boucher fills the open roster slot. Al Horford isn’t expected to return, reportedly eyeing a deal with the Warriors. Combined with the exits of Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Luke Kornet, Boston’s roster will look very different next season.
The Celtics still have one open standard roster spot after waiving JD Davison, though they appear likely to proceed with a 14-man squad. Jordan Walsh’s non-guaranteed deal gives them some flexibility, but he showed promise in Summer League.
The team’s two-way slots are now full following the addition of Luis, who previously played at UMass and St. John’s. Rookie Max Shulga (57th pick) and Miles Norris occupy the other two-way spots. However, this raises questions about Amari Williams, the 46th pick, as there are currently no two-way spots left for him.
Despite maintaining roster continuity after winning the 2024 NBA title, the Celtics have taken a different approach this summer. Fans will see many new faces like Simons, Boucher, Garza, Minott, and Gonzalez.
The big moves trading Porzingis and Holiday have already been made, but the front office, led by Brad Stevens, continues managing costs in what he called a “retooling” year. By staying under key salary thresholds, the Celtics gain both financial and competitive benefits. With training camp approaching, it remains to be seen how the final roster will shape up.
