Following a frustrating end to their campaign, the Boston Celtics appear determined to reshape their roster from top to bottom. On the very first day of the offseason, the Celtics made headlines by trading veteran guard Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers. Just a day later, Boston made an even bigger splash. This time it involved their starting center, Kristaps Porzingis.
In a three-team trade, the Celtics sent Kristaps Porzingis and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks. In return, Boston received sharpshooting forward Georges Niang and another second-round pick. The Brooklyn Nets were also involved in the deal and acquired Terrance Mann and the No. 22 pick in this year’s NBA Draft.
FULL TRADE DETAILS:
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 24, 2025
Hawks receive:
Kristaps Porzingis
2nd-round pick
Celtics receive:
Georges Niang
2nd-round pick
Nets receive:
Terrance Mann
No. 22 pick pic.twitter.com/skn8qBGDfq
The NBA’s newly implemented second apron of the luxury tax has forced tough decisions around the league. Boston is no exception.
With the recent trades of both Porzingis and Holiday, the Celtics have now moved out of that punishing second luxury tax bracket. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, these two transactions together are projected to save the franchise $180 million in future luxury tax payments.
Kristaps Porzingis’ Journey In Boston Marked By Highs And Injuries
Porzingis joined the Celtics in a 2023 three-team trade that also involved the Washington Wizards and Memphis Grizzlies. While he brought much-needed size and skill to Boston’s frontcourt, his time with the team was marred by injuries.
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In his first season, Porzingis suited up for 57 regular season games, posting strong averages of 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. That year, the Celtics captured their historic 18th NBA championship.
However, his second season was less fortunate, as injuries limited him to just 42 games. Still, he remained effective on the court. He averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.
