The Boston Celtics are in a much stronger financial position following recent trades.
Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, dealing Jrue Holiday to the Trail Blazers and Kristaps Porziņģis to the Hawks saved the team approximately $180 million in luxury tax penalties. Still, the Celtics may not be done reworking their roster, especially if it helps cut more costs. One potential move? Trading their 2024 NBA Finals MVP, who’s set to earn $285 million, in exchange for a younger, less expensive star from the Lakers.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Matt Brandon, Boston isn’t actively shopping their Finals MVP, but they’re definitely open to hearing offers especially in light of major roster changes like the Holiday-Simons swap and the Porziņģis departure. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss a large chunk of the upcoming season due to injury, the team appears focused on younger talent and long-term flexibility. A 27-year-old guard like Austin Reaves fits that approach well, and the draft assets that would come with him could help the Celtics invest in future talent.
Brandon suggests a deal sending Jaylen Brown to the Lakers in exchange for Reaves, Rui Hachimura, a first-round pick, and two second-rounders. While Brown is arguably one of the league’s best second options an explosive scorer and capable defender Boston may see Reaves as a solid interim option while Tatum recovers. Hachimura, who shot over 50% from the field and averaged 13.1 points last season, would also be a valuable piece in the frontcourt.
Brown, 28, posted strong numbers this season: 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game on 46.3% shooting. Despite lacking a strong left hand, he’s known for overpowering defenders and playing solid perimeter defense. While the Celtics would prefer to keep him, a trade for Reaves who just wrapped up a breakout season averaging 20.2 points per game would keep them competitive while easing their financial burden.
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