Celtics Lose Kornet, Porzingis; Rely on Youth

The Boston Celtics have lost center Luke Kornet to the San Antonio Spurs, who signed him to a four-year, $41 million contract. Kornet’s departure, combined with the loss of Kristaps Porzingis and uncertainty about Al Horford’s future, has left the Celtics with a significant gap in their frontcourt. The team is now looking to younger players and recent draft picks, including Hugo Gonzalez, Amari Williams, and Max Shulga, to fill key roles as they enter the NBA 2K26 Summer League. Financial constraints and luxury tax penalties influenced the Celtics’ decision not to match the Spurs’ offer for Kornet. In San Antonio, Kornet will wear a new jersey number as a tribute to Tim Duncan and family, and is expected to support Victor Wembanyama under a new coaching staff. These moves reflect Boston’s focus on long-term financial health over immediate roster stability.