The Boston Celtics dominated their way to the franchise’s 18th championship, but the time for celebration is over. They have to sort out the futures of multiple current players and add to their roster if they want to repeat. The draft is in the books and free agency begins on Sunday evening. Now, is the time for Brad Stevens and the front office to make moves.
The Celtics drafted Baylor Scheierman and Anton Watson. Scheierman played five years of NCAA basketball and should be ready to jump into the rotation as a rookie. Watson likely gets a two-way contract. Boston needs bench pieces to round out their roster, and Scheierman’s shooting and playmaking should earn him a role.
The Celtics are not done. They must figure out three long-term contracts, add a couple of ring chasers, and fill a need before training camp begins.
5. Extend Jayson Tatum
This should be the easiest move for Boston to make. They plan to offer Tatum a record-breaking $315 million extension, and the 26-year-old is expected to accept. It will keep the five-time All-Star locked in until 2030 and ensure the Celtics have multiple stars for the foreseeable future.
Tatum currently has a player option in the summer of 2025, so getting a new contract done is a priority. Things should come together quickly as both sides are eager to try to keep winning titles in Beantown.
Extending Jayson Tatum feels like a lock, but it is far from the only thing on the franchise’s offseason agenda. They must extend this important bench piece while adding to their roster in free agency.