The Boston Celtics are executing a flexible roster maneuver with young talent RJ Luis Jr. Mere days after waiving him from his two-way contract, the team has opted to re-sign him to an Exhibit 10 training camp deal, as reported by Noa Dalzell of CLNS.
This move is not intended to keep Luis on the main roster. Per Dalzell, the Celtics will soon waive him again, with the clear purpose of retaining him within their system and allowing him to sign with their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics. There, Luis will become eligible for a bonus of up to $85,300 should he remain with the affiliate for at least 60 days.
The 6-foot-6 St. John’s product went undrafted this past summer before latching on with the Utah Jazz on a two-way deal. He was acquired by the Celtics primarily as part of a cost-saving move that also netted Boston a trade exception. Despite appearing in three preseason games, Luis’s performance (2.0 points, 0.7 rebounds) seemingly did not convince the front office to award him a valuable two-way slot.
Mar 22, 2025; Providence, RI, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Boogie Fland (2) shoots against St. John’s Red Storm guard RJ Luis Jr. (12) during the first half of a second round men’s NCAA Tournament game at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
This decision reflects a summer of significant change for the Celtics, where President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens has made clear moves to cut costs. The departures of key players like Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet signal a shift in philosophy. With superstar Jayson Tatum sidelined for most of the season due to an Achilles injury, the Celtics are opening opportunities for young talents like Baylor Scheierman, Hugo Gonzalez, and Jordan Walsh to step up, while maintaining developmental prospects like Luis within their pipeline for future evaluation.