Celtics Seek Salary Relief Amid Trade Talks, Draft Plans

The Boston Celtics face a challenging offseason as they attempt to reduce their luxury tax burden while maintaining their core competitiveness. They are exploring ways to shed salary, particularly targeting players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, while intending to keep cornerstone players Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard, and Derrick White. Despite the financial constraints, the Celtics are considering strategic moves, including using their 28th and 32nd picks in the NBA Draft both to add talent and as trade assets to facilitate salary dumps. One high-profile trade idea involves acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns as a short-term rental, but this faces significant obstacles due to salary cap rules and the need for Brooklyn Nets' involvement. The Celtics plan to rely on their younger, versatile players, such as Pritchard, who is expected to step into a larger role, and draft prospects like Rasheer Fleming, who offers defensive versatility and shooting potential. Overall, Boston aims to balance cutting costs with adding value and maintaining a competitive roster amid a complex financial and roster management situation.