NBA Notebook: Resetting the Celtics roster after the Georges Niang trade

The Celtics inched closer to accomplishing their offseason goals last week by trading Georges Niang to the Utah Jazz and quickly replacing him with Chris Boucher, a veteran who's shifted between forward and center during his eight-year NBA career. Boucher is 6-9, 200 pounds, and provides some badly needed front-court flexibility for this season and perhaps beyond if the Celtics can retain him next summer. 

Signing him to a one-year deal allowed Boston to take advantage of a provision in the CBA aimed to make veterans competitive in free agency, reducing his cap hit from $3.3 million to $2.3 million. At roughly $9 million over the tax, that $1 million in savings reduced Boston's tax bill by $3.25 million, their current repeater tax penalty for where they're positioned. Trading Niang and his full salary into a Jazz trade exception and taking $0 back dropped Boston into the second tax bracket and slashed their bill by roughly $40 million. 

The moves did leave the Celtics with some unfinished business, as undrafted rookie forward RJ (Reggie) Luis Jr. slid into their final open two-way spot. Boston agreed to a two-year, two-way contract with Miles Norris last season and recently signed rookie Max Shulga to their second one. That left Amari Williams unsigned and without a roster spot other than the Celtics' final standard contract, signaling that there's more roster shuffling to come in Boston. The team currently has the maximum 21 players allowed to begin training camp between their 17 active roster players, Williams and training camp invites Jalen Bridges, Hayden Gray and Aaron Scott. The most straightforward path to clearing room in camp for Williams is to waive one of the camp invites and route them to Maine, where they'll likely play this season.

The time left in the offseason will probably allow for something more substantive, however, as it's unlikely Boston would pay Williams a guaranteed salary plus luxury tax to spend most of the year in the G-League. It's more likely that the Celtics will continue reducing their salary through a series of moves that could push them below the luxury tax threshold, which they're now within $9 million of getting below. Two consecutive years out of the tax would shed their repeater tax status, which currently has them paying $3.25 for every dollar spent, rather than $1.25 for the average team. 

Boston is also only $4.0 million above the first apron line, which isn't a critical one to get below, but would allow the Celtics to take in more money than they send out in a trade, participate in a sign-and-trade addition or utilize one of their trade exceptions later in the year if they want to. Teams outside of the first apron can also utilize the full mid-level exception. While it's unlikely Boston would make any of those moves now, it's feasible for them to finish a trade below that line and pair it with any number of those transactions, especially with offseason business unfinished around the league.

The straightest path to getting below either of those lines remains addressing Anfernee Simons' future. Like Niang, who went to Utah in a one-for-one deal, Simons can't be paired with another player in a trade until September 7, which is the next date to watch on the calendar. There's also no pressing need for him around the league, though the Nets still have significant cap space and await the end of Cam Thomas' restricted free agency to consider Brooklyn's next steps as a franchise. 

Simons could also begin the year with the Celtics, and in that case, Boston could waive either Luis or Norris to sign Williams, their second-round pick who's bound to the Celtics if he plays in the NBA this year. While Neemias Queta is guaranteed roughly half of his minimum series before the season begins, he's a relative lock to make the team at the thin center position while all this roster business leaves at least some intrigue surrounding Jordan Walsh's $200,000 guarantee. Walsh is still a strong bet to make the roster given his solid Summer League, youth and minimum contract ($2.2M), but the Celtics will need to feel confident about his ability to play NBA minutes this season given their financial situation. At the moment, Boston doesn't need to clear a standard roster spot and can leave its final one empty. 

That's how the Celtics have begun the year through their recent history, though while they have 14 standard players signed, only 13 are healthy with Jayson Tatum injured. That could increase the likelihood that they begin the season with 15 especially following significant tax savings through their recent moves. A rookie minimum is worth $1.3 million this season, which would carry a $4.2 million tax hit at the moment. The problem is that it's hard to imagine any player available at that cost playing significant, if any, minutes for Boston this year. That player would need to be a long-term, development investment for the franchise. 

As for the top end of the roster, Boucher's arrival changed the dynamic of their projected rotation with the Celtics regaining the ability to play larger lineups with positional versatility along with achieving greater lineup balance. Sam Hauser can either start or come off the bench while Boucher and Queta can share time at center, play together if Hauser stays in the second unit or spell each other's workload throughout the season. It's unclear how prepared Luka Garza, who's mostly played in the G-League to begin his career, is to play a regular role with Boston to begin this year. Josh Minott is in a similar position, and could slide down to a more developmental role following Boucher signing into a similar role he projected to play. 

Boucher only played 17.2 minutes per game last year with Toronto, and averaged per-36 splits of 21.0 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.0 block per game while shooting 49.2% from the field and 36.3% from three. There's a case for him taking on a massive role in the Celtics front court if he's healthy, though the time he missed in 2024-25 related to illness and a tooth ailment, rather than any physical injuries. Boucher also dealt with a partial MCL tear to finish the 2023-24 season in his right knee. 

Like other offseason additions, Boucher brought a contrasting play style from how the Celtics have played in recent years as an active cutter in the Raptors offense. He shoots the corner three at an efficient rate, finishing 39% there in 2025, posting 1.33 points per possession on cuts (58th percentile) and 1.09 PPP in transition. In 2024, he finished with 1.19 PPP on the run (63rd percentile) and an astonishing 1.50 PPP on cuts (87th percentile). As we've noted, the Celtics rarely cut last year, finishing tied for 26th in cut possessions per game that ended with a shot or turnover (6.5). Boston cut the fewest times per game of any team in the 2025 playoffs. Defensively, Boucher excelled in isolation last year (0.68 PPP allowed) but struggled as much as anyone in pick-and-roll coverage (1.20 PPP allowed, 1st percentile). He's not considered an especially strong switch defender and allowed 47.8% shooting to opponents in his matchups last year, a relatively high number in an admittedly noisy stat. 

Boucher could become the barometer of recently extended head coach Joe Mazzulla's willingness to take a different approach stylistically this year as he brings the athleticism, speed and shooting to play more up-and-down along with the inconsistency, defensive lapses and cutting style that would typically lead him in a different direction. It's unclear why Boucher didn't garner more interest in free agency as a depth big, one of the bigger areas of need around the league, or to return to the Raptors, where he spent seven seasons as a champion and beloved depth contributor. Toronto built a youth movement and defensive-minded approach late in 2025. 

As for next summer, Boucher's addition keeps Boston positioned with four open standard roster spots, $29 million in room beneath the first apron, freeing them comfortably to use the full mid-level, and $41.7 million below the second apron before adding their draft selection. They do not have a path to cap space. 

Here's what else happened around the NBA this week...

Atlanta: Trae Young is reportedly frustrated that the Hawks have yet to offer him a contract extension, according to Marc Spears. Young is entering the final year of his contract before he has a player option next summer, worth $49 million. The Hawks have until June 30 to reach a maximum four-year, $222.4 million deal with him. 

Boston: Signed head coach Joe Mazzulla to a contract extension. Mazzulla had entered the final year of the deal he signed in 2023 to become the full-time head coach following Ime Udoka's firing. Michael Holley had indicated that he had a team option for the 2026-27 season, but this new contract achieved Brad Stevens' desire to keep Mazzulla in Boston long term. ... The Celtics will not play on Christmas Day this season for the first time since 2014-15. 

Charlotte: Grant Williams spoke to the Charlotte Observer about the Hornets' outlook, sharing that he's returned to the court in some capacity, but hasn't been cleared for contact yet as training camp nears. He's currently taking part in shooting contests and working out following an ACL tear that ended his 2025-26 season early after 16 games. Williams also discussed the rookies the Hornets drafted, who won the Summer League title, other offseason additions, and coach Charles Lee. 

"We have bigs like Mason (Plumlee) and Moussa (Diabate) that can really run the floor," he said. "We have a guy like Ryan (Kalkbrenner) that can really protect the paint, also space the floor. I’ve seen him shoot it and he shoots it well ... and then in terms of the wings and guard play, we have so much more potency. We have Collin Sexton, Tre Mann, Josh Green when he gets healthy, myself when I get healthy. You have Miles (Bridges), Kon (Knueppel). Geez, you could go down the line with a lot of names that we can add, so we are just super excited not only about the scoring potential but the ability to compete at a high level every single night." 

Chicago/Golden State: The Warriors reportedly have interest in a sign-and-trade that would swap Jonathan Kuminga for Josh Giddey with the Bulls as both teams await resolutions on their restricted free agencies. Such a deal would hard cap both teams at the first apron, potentially complicating the Warriors' pursuit of various free agents, including Al Horford, who have been on hold since the offseason began. The Warriors and Kuminga have remained roughly $10 million apart in average annual value to this point, and have been at odds over stipulations like a no-trade clause and team option for future seasons. The Bulls have been linked to Kuminga sign-and-trade interest in past reports, though to this point they've shot down calls about sign-and-trades for Giddey, who they offered four years, $80 million. The Warriors also recently shut down trade discussions for Kuminga, who they're now intending to bring back for 2025-26. Golden State will take part in opening night against the Lakers and Christmas Day hosting the Mavericks in the night game. 

Denver: Nikola Jokić returned to the floor with the Serbian national team and posted 23 points and 19 rebounds in their exhibition against Greece, who did not have Giannis Antetokounmpo yet. Serbia is going all-in for the EuroBasket competition later this month, with Jokić, Bogdan Bogdanović and Nikola Jovic playing alongside four other NBA players after nearly defeating the US in last summer's Olympics before earning the Bronze medal. They face Neemias Queta and Portugal in group play on August 29. Queta opened Portugal's exhibition slate by leading the country's first-ever win over Spain. Their group also includes Kristaps Porziņģis and Spain, as well as Alperen Şengün and Turkey. The Nuggets will host the Timberwolves to cap Christmas Day in the late game. 

Detroit: Malik Beasley hinted on social media at an NBA return this season, whether in Detroit or elsewhere, despite no reporting that he's in the clear from the FBI investigation, lawsuits and other turmoil surrounding him this offseason. The Pistons moved on by adding Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson in free agency, and withheld their planned three-year offer once the investigation into Beasley became known. Beasley was reportedly evicted from his apartment in Detroit this week. 

Houston: Open the season against the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder on the road on their ring night in a return game for former Thunder star Kevin Durant in his debut with his new Rockets team. Houston will also visit the Lakers on Christmas Day, the Rockets' first appearance in the showcase since 2019. 

Indiana: Rick Carlisle appeared on NBA analyst Caitlin Cooper's podcast to discuss NBA trends, the team's plan to start Bennedict Mathurin in place of injured Tyrese Haliburton this season and the influence of Kobe Bryant, among other topics. Indiana was also snubbed from Christmas Day despite their Finals appearance in a bet by the NBA on Western teams. Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson has reportedly been re-watching the Pacers series repeatedly to learn from the defeat. 

Lakers: Luka Dončić celebrated his Lakers extension by attending a Backstreet Boys concert in Las Vegas following the ceremony in Los Angeles, joined by numerous teammates. LeBron James did not attend either event, though reportedly contacted Dončić to congratulate him on the deal as James' future with the organization beyond this season remains uncertain. Despite some offseason turbulence, the team is not expected to trade or part ways with James this summer. 

"I think the No. 1 thing we have to do there is respect he and his family's decision in terms of how long he's going to play," Rob Pelinka said, addressing James' future at the Dončić ceremony. "We want to respect his ability to come up with his timetable on that. I think that's really important. But if he had a chance to retire a Laker, that would be great."

Miami: Norman Powell spoke to the Miami Herald about the acclimation process to the Heat after his trade there from the Clippers last month. Powell is playing for the Jamaican national team as it tries to qualify for the 2027 FIBA World Cup, which could set up an appearance in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Powell is one of a number of NBA stars interested in getting Jamaica a spot in the Games. Powell scored 34 points against Costa Rica in an overtime win on Saturday. 

“It’s been amazing," Powell said. "Being traded to the Heat, being so close to where I’ll be playing, and being able to go down there and go to the facility, look for a place to stay ... it’s definitely cool.”

New York: Found Mike Brown's top assistant in Hornets assistant Chris Jent, who coached Charlotte's Summer League team to a 6-0 slate and championship in Las Vegas last month. He's spent 17 years as a coach between the G-League, college and seven NBA teams after his 20-year playing career between the NBA and overseas. Jent spent one year on Charles Lee's staff in Charlotte after two with the Lakers and five in Atlanta. The Pelicans previously declined to allow James Borrego to leave for New York while Pacers assistant Mike Weinar declined an opportunity to take the job, preferring to keep his family in Indiana. Jent will coach the Knicks' offense this season, while former Clippers assistant Brendan O'Connor will become the team's defensive coordinator alongside Brown, who's historically known as a defensive coach but led a dynamic offense with Sacramento.

Oklahoma City: Received the championship treatment in the early scheduling reports, opening the 2025-26 season at home against the Rockets before hosting a Christmas Day game against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs. Oklahoma City last played on Christmas in 2018 despite their rapid ascension over the past two years. The Thunder have perhaps the last chance any team will under the new NBA rules to create a dynasty this season. Former Oklahoma City veteran Mike Muscala, who spent time with the Celtics in 2023, will join the Phoenix Suns' coaching stuff. 

Philadelphia: Quentin Grimes could accept his qualifying offer and return to free agency next summer, unrestricted, according to Jake Fischer. Grimes' qualifying offer is worth $8.7 million and would grant him a no-trade clause and the chance to test out next offseason's market. Cam Thomas is considering a similar move with Brooklyn, according to Jake Fischer. It's a rare move by free agents given the small guarantee and security compared to a long-term deal, but it's a restricted free agent's right to counteract the team's leverage. The Sixers are reportedly in no rush to come to an agreement with Grimes, who averaged 21.9 PPG with them (28 G). 

Portland: Damian Lillard provided an update on his Achilles recovery at one of his summer camps. It's a slow process in the early weeks, Lillard said three months after his procedure, then you're walking comfortably, riding a bike and the pain and stiffness go away. The Trail Blazers haven't ruled out Lillard returning this season, the same approach the Celtics have taken with Jayson Tatum, who was walking without a boot and climbing stairs at a community event in Rhode Island this week. Celtics president Rich Gotham again declined to rule Tatum out for the season, speaking to reporters at the event. 

“What I know about JT is that he’s gonna do everything he can to put us in the position to make a decision,” Gotham said.

San Antonio: Jeremy Sochan will not participate in EuroBasket after suffering a calf strain, and will return to San Antonio for rehab. Sochan was expected to compete for Poland, who he's played for professionally since his youth. 

Utah: Georges Niang is expected to join the Jazz after his trade from the Celtics, though Utah will need to open a roster spot for him to join the team, which could potentially set up Kevin Love's buyout following the John Collins-Norman Powell trade that brought him over from Miami. Kyle Anderson also joined Utah and will become a veteran presence at forward alongside Niang, who played with the Jazz previously from 2017-21. The Cavaliers traded Niang to Atlanta last season in the Caris LeVert deal, then the Hawks sent him to Boston in June for Kristaps Porziņģis. Niang is 32 this season and is playing on a one-year, $8.2 million contract. The trade marked the first deal between Austin Ainge and his former Celtics team that he left to become Utah's president earlier this summer.