Celtics predicted to 'explore the trade market' for Porzingis, Brown, White

Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury has changed the Boston Celtics' entire outlook.

Could Boston decide to blow up the roster this summer?

That’s a tad dramatic, but even before Tatum’s injury, the Celtics faced challenges with their exorbitant payroll, which exceeds the NBA’s second apron and limits roster flexibility. Now, with their franchise cornerstone sidelined for most, if not all, of the 2025-26 season, Boston’s GM Brad Stevens might consider some bold moves.

The Athletic’s Jay King wrote about the Celtics’ possible strategy on Tuesday.

“It would be sensible for the Celtics to consider getting younger to retool for when Tatum returns to the court,” King wrote.

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“Al Horford, who will turn 39 next month, is an impending free agent. Jrue Holiday, who will turn 35 next month, will likely be 36 or very close to it by the time Tatum is healthy again. If the Celtics want to shed even more salary for next season, they could also explore the trade market for (Jaylen) Brown, (Kristaps) Porziņģis and Derrick White.”

“It’s hard to understate the significance of Tatum’s injury. It could force a major pivot for the organization. Though Kevin Durant and others have recently provided hope for athletes recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon, it has historically been one of the most damaging injuries for NBA players. Tatum will have a long road back to the court, and the Celtics will need to reimagine their plans around him.” 

Trading Brown or Porziņģis would free up significant cap space, allowing Boston to pursue younger talent or draft picks to build around Tatum long-term. 

With Horford’s free agency (and possible retirement?) looming and Holiday’s contract only growing in cost, the Celtics face tough decisions to balance immediate competitiveness with future sustainability.

If there’s anyone prepared to ace the test, though, it’s Boston’s reigning NBA Executive of the Year, Stevens.

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