6 Players Who Could Leave The Boston Celtics In 2025 Offseason
Should the Celtics face elimination in the second round, the offseason will be very interesting for the reigning NBA champions. The combination of Tatum's lengthy recovery timeline and the team's playoff exit may prompt the front office to make some important decisions, because their payroll sits at $223.9 million, which leads the NBA next season, and they must look at how to shred salary.
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Key contributors, including veterans like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, might find themselves at the center of trade discussions as the organization contemplates a retooling around shooting, defense, and athleticism.
1. Jrue Holiday
Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) looks on against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn ImagesCredit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Age: 34
2024-25 Season Stats: 11.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Jrue Holiday's veteran presence was invaluable last season during the Celtics' championship run and again this year with his sheer presence. However, at 34 and approaching 35, Holiday's offensive production saw a decline, and he missed critical playoff games due to a hamstring strain. That might not be enough for a player who will earn $32,400,000 and $34,800,000 over the next two seasons, with a $37,200,000 player option in 2027-28.
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While he was honored with his second NBA Sportsmanship Award, the Celtics may consider moving on to inject youth and dynamism into their backcourt. With Jayson Tatum sidelined and the team's future uncertain, Boston might look to trade Holiday to acquire assets or younger talent, and we have some ideas and who they might be.
2. Kristaps Porzingis
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) against the Houston Rockets during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center.Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
Age: 29
2024-25 Season Stats: 19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Kristaps Porzingis had a solid season with the Celtics, providing scoring and rim protection when he was available to play. However, his injury history remains a concern. He missed eight games in March due to an upper respiratory illness and exited as early as Game 1 of the playoffs.
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Given his health issues and the team's need to reassess its roster, Boston might consider trading Porzingis to acquire more durable assets or draft picks. If the Celtics opt for a rebuild, moving Porzingis could free up cap space and provide flexibility to pursue younger talent, because the Latvian will make $30,731,707 next season.
3. Derrick White
May 14, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) in the first half during game five of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Age: 30
2024-25 Season Stats: 16.4 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Derrick White is, without a doubt, a key contributor for the Celtics, especially in clutch situations. Despite his contributions on both ends of the court, the Celtics might explore trading White to capitalize on his high market value. After all, the guard will make $28,100,000 next season and will make $30,348,000 and $32,596,000 over the two seasons after.
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White's departure could be part of a broader strategy to acquire draft picks or emerging talent and avoid the expensive nature of the guard's contract. White is without a critical component of the team, but if he can be moved to bring in a top-tier star, anything is possible.
4. Luke Kornet
Apr 13, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet (40) shoots during the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
Age: 29
2024-25 Season Stats: 6.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Luke Kornet provided valuable minutes off the bench, showcasing efficiency and solid rebounding. However, with limited offensive upside and the Celtics potentially looking to develop younger frontcourt talent, Kornet's role might diminish.
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As an unrestricted free agent, he could seek opportunities elsewhere for a more significant role. The big man had a coming out party in Game 5 against the Knicks, posting 10 points (5-5 FG), 9 rebounds, and 7 blocks. There is no doubt there will be teams offering an impressive contract offer for the upcoming free agent.
5. Al Horford
May 7, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) returns up court against the New York Knicks in the fourth quarter during game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Age: 38
2024-25 Season Stats: 9.0 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.9 BPG
Al Horford's veteran leadership and experience have been invaluable to the Celtics, and he has solidified himself in history for the franchise. However, at 38 and approaching 39, his physical capabilities are naturally declining.
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With his contract concluding before free agency, Horford might consider retirement, or the Celtics might opt not to re-sign him. If the Celtics pursue a movement around players in their prime, which they should, letting a veteran walk isn't the worst decision.
6. Sam Hauser
Apr 9, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser (30) brings the ball up court in front of Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) during the first quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Age: 27
2024-25 Season Stats: 8.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Sam Hauser was a reliable shooter off the bench (posting 8.5 PPG on 41.6% 3-PT FG), contributing valuable spacing for the Celtics' offense. His consistent three-point shooting makes him a desirable asset for any NBA team right now. As he enters free agency, Hauser might receive offers that the Celtics are unwilling to match, leading to his departure.
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The Celtics' decision to retain Hauser would depend on their financial flexibility and roster priorities. Hauser is on a team-friendly deal, making under $11 million for the next two seasons, so moving him would be slightly less of a priority than other players on bigger contracts.
Related: 5 Best Kristaps Porzingis Deals That Would Bring The Celtics Young Players And Future Picks
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