Celtics All-Star with high trade risk expresses desire to stay in Boston

On Saturday, one Boston Celtics guard made it clear he wants to remain with the team.

Boston’s season ended on Friday night at the hands of the New York Knicks. The Celtics won’t be repeating as NBA champions, and now a fascinating offseason awaits, as many are speculating that Boston’s GM Brad Stevens will make a significant roster move or two to cut costs.

One of the players rumored to be at risk via trade is Jrue Holiday.

But according to Holiday, he’d much rather be in Boston than anywhere else.

The two-time NBA champion, whose defensive prowess and clutch play were pivotal during Boston’s 2024 title run, expressed unwavering commitment to the Celtics’ future during his exit interview on Saturday.

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“I think we still have a really, really great opportunity,” Holiday said, per CLNS Media’s Noa Dalzell.

“And a great window to be successful and win a championship again … The opportunity to win is now, and I still want to be a part of that.”

Holiday, 34, sees Boston’s window for contention wide open, and he’s eager to stay in green.

Fans and management alike will welcome Holiday’s stance. His defensive tenacity and championship pedigree are undeniable, and his desire to chase another ring with the Celtics is awesome to hear.

Even so, Holiday regressed in 2024-25, and it’s unclear why. A collection of injuries? Age?

Due to his less-than-stellar season, Holiday wouldn’t demand a strong return on the 2025 summer trade market, but Stevens still might feel that moving Holiday is what’s best for the franchise financially.

On the other hand, keeping a proven championship player like Holiday on the roster would have its obvious basketball benefits, even if Holiday is past his prime.

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