Boston Celtics Expected To Make Major Trades To Clear Salary Cap

As the Boston Celtics navigate the 2025 offseason, their primary focus is shedding salary to get under the NBA's second luxury tax apron. Despite trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics remain slightly above the threshold and are expected to make additional moves, with Anfernee Simons considered the most likely player to be traded due to his sizable contract. Other players such as Sam Hauser and Georges Niang might also be moved as the team balances financial constraints with competitiveness, especially in light of Jayson Tatum's expected absence for most of the upcoming season. These moves represent a strategic downgrade to ensure future flexibility and cap space for when Tatum returns in the 2026-27 season. The Celtics' front office, led by Brad Stevens, is committed to avoiding repeat luxury tax penalties while preparing to contend again. Meanwhile, a missed opportunity to sign Damian Lillard was partly influenced by Jrue Holiday's presence in Portland, demonstrating the complexities involved in roster building during this transitional period.