In a stunning turn of events, the Boston Celtics are reportedly finalizing a blockbuster trade that will send star center Kristaps Porzingis to their fiercest rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. The proposed deal, first reported by Heavy Sports on June 3, 2025, marks a seismic shift in the NBA landscape, as the Celtics look to navigate financial constraints while the Lakers aim to bolster their frontcourt alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
Trade Details
According to the proposal by Brian Robb of MassLive, the trade would see the Celtics parting ways with Porzingis, who has been a key piece of their championship roster but has struggled with injuries and a mysterious illness that hampered his 2024-25 season. In return, Boston would receive:
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Gabe Vincent
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Maxi Kleber
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Draft compensation, including a 2030 first-round pick swap and a 2032 first-round pick swap
The Lakers, desperate for a true center, view Porzingis as a transformative addition. His ability to stretch the floor with 41.2% three-point shooting, protect the rim with 1.5 blocks per game, and contribute 19.5 points and 6.8 rebounds during the regular season makes him an ideal fit for JJ Redick’s system. Despite a rocky stint together in Dallas, pairing Porzingis with Dončić again could unlock new offensive possibilities for Los Angeles, especially as they aim to capitalize on LeBron’s championship window.
Why the Celtics Are Making This Move
The Celtics’ decision to trade Porzingis stems from their dire financial situation. With a projected payroll exceeding $500 million, including hefty luxury tax penalties, Boston faces intense pressure to duck under the NBA’s second luxury tax apron. Porzingis’ $30.7 million expiring contract in 2025-26, combined with his injury history—he played only 99 of 164 games over two seasons—makes him a prime candidate to move.
By acquiring Vincent and Kleber, both on expiring deals, the Celtics gain tradeable contracts to use as chips at the deadline. The draft picks, while not immediate game-changers, provide future flexibility for GM Brad Stevens to retool around Jayson Tatum (currently sidelined with an Achilles injury) and Jaylen Brown. The move signals a potential shift from Boston’s championship core, as they balance competitiveness with financial sustainability under new ownership led by Bill Chisholm.
Lakers’ Perspective: A Bold Gamble
For the Lakers, this trade addresses a glaring need at the center position. Current starter Jaxson Hayes lacks the versatility and impact Porzingis brings. Despite concerns about Porzingis’ durability, his skill set as a 7’3” unicorn—capable of shooting, rim protection, and post play—offers a significant upgrade. The Lakers are betting that a healthy Porzingis, paired with Dončić’s playmaking and James’ leadership, can propel them past Western Conference powerhouses like the Minnesota Timberwolves.
However, the trade isn’t without risks. Porzingis’ injury history and the fact that he and Dončić didn’t fully mesh in Dallas raise questions. Additionally, parting with Vincent and Kleber depletes LA’s depth, and the pick swaps could haunt them if their roster falters in the coming years.
Fan Reactions and Rivalry Implications
The trade has sent shockwaves through the NBA, particularly among Celtics and Lakers fans. For Boston, trading a key contributor to their 2024 championship to their arch-rivals is a bitter pill to swallow. Social media posts on X reflect the divide: some Celtics fans see it as a necessary evil to manage the cap, while others view it as a betrayal of the team’s identity. Lakers fans, meanwhile, are cautiously optimistic, with many excited about Porzingis’ fit but wary of his health.
The Celtics-Lakers rivalry, already one of the most storied in sports, adds an extra layer of intrigue. With Boston’s 18 championships and LA’s 17, this trade could tip the scales in the race for Banner 19. Porzingis facing his former team in a Lakers jersey promises must-watch matchups.
What’s Next?
While the trade is not yet official, sources indicate negotiations are advanced. For Boston, this could be the first of several moves, with Jrue Holiday and Derrick White also rumored to be trade candidates. The Lakers, meanwhile, continue to explore options to complement their new-look roster, with names like Daniel Gafford mentioned as fallback targets.
As the NBA offseason heats up, all eyes will be on Porzingis and how this blockbuster reshapes the futures of both franchises. Will the Celtics regret sending a star to their rivals, or will this trade pave the way for a reimagined contender? Only time will tell.