It’s easy to argue that the Boston Celtics are the deepest team in the NBA. Thanks to the impressive team-building philosophy of Brad Stevens and his front office, the team secured their 18th NBA title with the help of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
Last season’s roster quality was exceptional. With players like Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser, the Celtics will undoubtedly remain formidable next season. Kristaps Porzingis was a significant contributor, providing offensive and defensive prowess that challenged opposing big men.
While some Boston fans hope Porzingis will complete his contract with the Celtics, rumors suggest he might leave sooner due to potential tax issues. Despite the team’s desire to keep their 2024 championship roster intact, financial constraints might necessitate moves to reduce their tax bill.
It’s unlikely that Derrick White and Jrue Holiday will be cut, given their crucial roles in the championship run. This leaves Porzingis as a potential candidate for a trade to ease the financial burden.
The Houston Rockets have been suggested as possible trade partners, potentially involving Dillon Brooks and additional salary filler. According to Sports Illustrated’s Kade Kimble, Porzingis would enhance Houston’s defensive identity with his size and shot-blocking ability. As demonstrated in Boston and elsewhere, Porzingis can significantly impact a game.
Offensively, Porzingis is an excellent floor-spacer despite being 7-foot-3. He is also a vertical threat in pick-and-roll situations and versatile, being the NBA’s first “unicorn.”
If the Celtics decide to trade Porzingis, they will lose a major part of their success from last season. He had a solid 2023-24 season, averaging 20.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, and 1.9 BPG.
Celtics fans will be hoping that rumors of Porzingis leaving aren’t true, but they wouldn’t be significantly weaker without him. The depth and talent of the roster, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, remain formidable. With key players like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday, the team is still poised to be a strong contender next season, even if Porzingis departs.