Despite a disappointing 2024-25 season, Jrue Holiday remained committed to continuing his journey with the Boston Celtics. The veteran guard had set his sights on competing for another championship with the team.
However, the Celtics had a different plan in mind. To shed salary and avoid the harsh penalties of the second luxury tax apron, the team decided to trade Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday.
According to Heavy Sports senior NBA columnist Steve Bulpett, Holiday did not take the news well. Bulpett wrote that the star guard is reportedly not happy about being dealt to Portland.
“Now, if he winds up staying there, I’m sure he’ll be the professional he’s always been and make a positive contribution. But he’s not happy with this deal. I’ll be surprised if Portland doesn’t move him on if they can, because right now he does not want to go there,” Bulpett wrote.
Jrue Holiday is reportedly “pissed” that he was traded to Portland, per @SteveBHoop
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 24, 2025
“He does not want to go there.” pic.twitter.com/hMAt2lAMat
In exchange for Holiday, the Celtics received guard Anfernee Simons and two future second-round picks. One of those picks will come from the New York Knicks in 2030, while the other is from the Blazers themselves in 2031.
Why Portland’s Trade For Jrue Holiday Makes More Sense Than It Seems
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NBA insider Kevin O’Connor believes the Portland Trail Blazers’ trade for Jrue Holiday is smarter than it appears on the surface. Following the All-Star break, Portland had a top-five defensive rating, and adding Holiday could help elevate them even further. He’s also a much better on-court fit alongside the Blazers’ young core than Anfernee Simons was.
Why Portland's trade for Jrue Holiday is better than you think:
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 24, 2025
The Blazers had a top five defensive rating after the All-Star Break. In the short term, Jrue Holiday can help them take another step forward and he is a way better fit next to the core pieces on the roster.
This…
O’Connor points out that if Holiday bounces back this season, his trade value could soar past what Portland gave up. That opens the door for a potential trade to a contender before the 2026 deadline.
Even if they don’t move him, Holiday’s $37 million expiring contract in 2027-28 becomes a valuable trade chip. Teams need big salaries to land stars, and Holiday could be that piece. This deal isn’t about Portland rushing to contend, it’s about smart asset management and long-term flexibility.
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