The Boston Celtics have been making waves in the NBA trade market this offseason, executing a series of calculated moves to reshape their roster while navigating the tight constraints of the NBA’s luxury tax. Under the shrewd leadership of Brad Stevens, the Celtics have already traded away two starters and flipped one of the players acquired in those deals, all in a relentless pursuit to get under the second apron of the luxury tax. Mission accomplished—Boston is now below that threshold. But Stevens isn’t done yet. With a potential $9.4 million in savings on the horizon, the Celtics are eyeing further maneuvers to slip under the luxury tax entirely, setting the stage for a financially savvy yet competitive roster heading into the new season.
With efforts to reroute Anfernee Simons hitting a wall, Boston is exploring alternative ways to shed salary while maintaining their championship-caliber depth. A compelling trade proposal from Bleacher Report outlines a potential deal that could help the Celtics achieve their financial goals without sacrificing their competitive edge:
Boston Celtics receive: Justin Champagnie
Washington Wizards receive: Hugo González and a 2026 second-round pick (via MIN, NYK, NOP, or POR)
This trade would be a clear signal that Boston is gearing up for another blockbuster move. Acquiring Champagnie, a versatile forward with a knack for shooting, suggests the Celtics might be preparing to part ways with another forward—potentially Sam Hauser—to further trim their payroll. Champagnie’s emergence as a reliable shooter last season (knocking down threes at an impressive clip) makes him an ideal fit for Boston’s three-point-heavy offense. He could slide seamlessly into a bench role, providing spacing and defensive hustle without breaking the bank.
For the Washington Wizards, who are in the midst of a chaotic rebuild, this deal offers a low-risk opportunity to acquire young talent in González and a future draft pick. With no clear direction yet, the Wizards are eager to stockpile assets as they figure out their long-term identity.
Justin Champagnie, a 24-year-old forward, showed promise last season with the Wizards, averaging 8.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1 assist per game. His ability to stretch the floor with consistent three-point shooting aligns perfectly with Boston’s high-volume, perimeter-oriented attack. While not a household name, Champagnie’s skill set makes him a cost-effective addition who can contribute without commanding a massive salary. For a Celtics team that thrives on spacing and versatility, he’s a low-key gem who could shine in a defined role off the bench.
This proposed deal isn’t just about Champagnie—it’s a chess move in a larger strategy. Adding him to the roster could be a precursor to trading a higher-salaried player like Hauser, whose $9.4 million contract makes him a prime candidate for salary relief. By executing this trade, Boston would not only bolster their forward depth but also position themselves to make another splash before the season begins. However, with training camp looming, it’s unlikely the Celtics will pull off another major deal before players report. The focus now is on fine-tuning the roster and exploring smaller trades to inch closer to escaping the luxury tax entirely.
Boston’s pursuit of a trade for Anfernee Simons has been a hot topic, but it appears a deal won’t materialize before camp. Without a trade partner for the high-scoring guard, the Celtics are likely to enter the season with their current core intact. That said, Stevens’ front office remains laser-focused on financial flexibility. If Boston can shed just a bit more salary—potentially through a smaller deal like the one proposed—they could slip under the luxury tax for the first time in years. This would be a strategic coup, giving the Celtics more room to maneuver in future seasons while maintaining their status as title contenders.
For the Celtics, this offseason is about balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term sustainability. Getting under the luxury tax isn’t just about saving money—it’s about avoiding the punitive restrictions that come with being a repeat offender in the NBA’s tax system. By making savvy moves like the proposed Champagnie trade, Boston can keep their championship window wide open while staying financially agile. If this is the year to duck the tax, Stevens is leaving no stone unturned to make it happen.
As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Boston to see if they can pull off one final trade to cement their roster and financial strategy. With Champagnie potentially joining the fold and another deal possibly in the works, the Celtics are proving they can play the salary cap game as well as they play on the court. The countdown to training camp is on, and Boston’s high-stakes plan is just getting started.