The Boston Celtics wrapped up their season in ugly fashion, losing to the New York Knicks in the second round of the playoffs. And to make matters worse, Jayson Tatum ruptured his Achilles in Game 4, meaning he will likely miss most, or all, of next season, leaving the Celtics in limbo.
Not only do they have to shed salary to get below the second apron, but they also now have to deal with the reality that competing for a championship may the table because of Tatum’s absence. (Or, at the very least, it will be much, much more difficult.)
With that, here are three players who may have played their final game for the Celtics due to their impending tough roster decisions.
1. Torrey Craig
After joining the team via the buyout market on the day of the trade deadline, Torrey Craig didn’t end up contributing much in Boston. He was a solid rebounder and hustled well for backdoor cuts, but he didn’t play much in the postseason.
That said, what Craig lacked in on-court playing time, he made up for in vibes. Anytime one of his teammates did something well on the court, Craig was the first player to jump up from the bench and celebrate.
Unfortunately, at 34 years old, Craig isn’t getting any younger. Keeping him around as a depth piece could be useful, but it seems likely that he won’t be back in Boston next year.
2. Jrue Holiday
Boston needs to get under the second apron, which means they will have to shed at least $20 million in salary this summer. Because of that, Jrue Holiday’s contract is a prime candidate to be moved.
Holiday has been spectacular for the Celtics in his two years with the club, especially in the playoffs. However, he inked a long-term deal prior to the start of last postseason, and now, that money is coming back to bite Boston.
Shipping out Holiday’s contract almost feels like a certainty at this point if the Celtics want to get under the second apron.
3. Kristaps Porzingis
Just like Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis may end up being a casualty of the Celtics’ financial goals this offseason. He’ll make just over $30 million next year, and getting off that money would seriously help the Celtics.
Porzingis was rough to end last season, though, so his value is in the gutter. That said, he will be on an expiring contract next season, so perhaps a team could take a chance on him.
Either way, just like Holiday, Porzingis’ salary figure might force the Celtics to part ways with the Latvian big man.
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