Celtics Weigh Trades of Jrue Holiday, Derrick White Amid Salary Challenges

The Boston Celtics face a challenging offseason following their disappointing playoff exit and the severe injury to star Jayson Tatum. A key decision revolves around managing their expensive roster, particularly the contracts of Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. While Holiday carries a hefty $134 million contract over three more years and is considered more likely to be traded due to his age and financial burden, White, despite being older than some teammates, remains a valuable and versatile player whom the team is hesitant to move without substantial return. Trade proposals involving White, such as sending him to Detroit for promising assets like Jaden Ivey and protected picks, have been discussed but seem unlikely unless the Celtics receive an even bigger return. Additionally, Kristaps Porzingis, on an expiring contract, is viewed as a more movable veteran. Ultimately, the Celtics must balance financial constraints, including avoiding the NBA's luxury tax penalties, with maintaining a competitive roster, suggesting multiple trades could be necessary to manage salary cap issues while preparing for a return to elite status post-Tatum's recovery.