The Boston Celtics, fresh off their 2024 NBA Championship, are not resting on their laurels. In a stunning move to solidify their core and extend their championship window, the Celtics have executed two bold trades that could reshape their future. These deals aim to address roster depth, financial flexibility, and long-term competitiveness while preserving the team’s star-studded lineup of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and others. Here’s a breakdown of the blockbuster trades that have sent shockwaves through the NBA.
Trade 1: Acquiring Depth with Zach LaVine
In a move that caught the league off guard, the Celtics have acquired Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine, a two-time All-Star known for his explosive scoring and athleticism. In exchange, Boston sent Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and a 2028 first-round pick (top-10 protected) to Chicago.
Why It Works for Boston
LaVine, with his ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor, adds another dynamic scoring option to Boston’s lineup. His 24.8 points per game average in the 2022-23 season and 37.7% three-point shooting make him a perfect fit alongside Tatum and Brown. With Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis already in place, LaVine’s addition creates a starting five that is nearly unguardable. His contract, while hefty at $138 million over three years, aligns with Boston’s window to compete for titles now.
The trade also provides financial breathing room. By moving White’s $19.5 million and Pritchard’s $6.7 million salaries, the Celtics alleviate some of the luxury tax burden while gaining a star-level talent. LaVine’s playmaking could also reduce the offensive load on Tatum, allowing the young superstar to conserve energy for the postseason.
What Chicago Gets
For the Bulls, Derrick White is a proven two-way guard who can anchor their backcourt with his elite defense and playmaking (4.9 assists per game in 2023-24). Payton Pritchard, a fan favorite in Boston, brings energy off the bench and has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 9.6 points in limited minutes last season. The 2028 first-round pick gives Chicago future flexibility as they navigate their post-Zach LaVine era.
Trade 2: Bolstering the Bench with Kyle Kuzma
In the second deal, the Celtics have added Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards to strengthen their bench. In return, Washington receives Al Horford, Sam Hauser, and a 2026 second-round pick.
Why It Works for Boston
Kuzma, a 2020 NBA champion with the Lakers, brings versatility and scoring punch to Boston’s second unit. Averaging 22.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in 2023-24, Kuzma can play multiple positions and thrive in a sixth-man role. His $23.5 million contract over the next two years is manageable, especially as Boston looks to replace Horford’s veteran presence in the frontcourt. Kuzma’s ability to handle the ball and create offense will also give coach Joe Mazzulla more lineup flexibility during the grueling playoff run.
Losing Horford, a beloved figure in Boston, is tough, but at 38 years old, his minutes are declining (27.0 per game last season). Hauser, a sharpshooter with a 42.4% three-point percentage, is a valuable trade chip, but his role was limited in the postseason. The second-round pick is a small price to pay for a player of Kuzma’s caliber.
What Washington Gets
For the Wizards, Al Horford provides veteran leadership for a young roster in the midst of a rebuild. His experience and defensive IQ will help mentor players like Bilal Coulibaly and Alex Sarr. Sam Hauser gives Washington a cost-controlled shooter who can grow into a larger role. The 2026 second-round pick adds to their draft capital as they continue to stockpile assets.
The Bigger Picture: A Dynasty in the Making
These trades signal Boston’s commitment to building a dynasty around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, both locked in with long-term extensions. By adding LaVine’s star power and Kuzma’s versatility, the Celtics have addressed two critical needs: a third scoring option and a reliable bench scorer. These moves also help manage their payroll, as the team navigates the NBA’s new luxury tax rules.
With a starting lineup of Holiday, LaVine, Brown, Tatum, and Porzingis, backed by a bench featuring Kuzma and others, Boston is poised to dominate the Eastern Conference for years to come. The Celtics’ front office, led by Brad Stevens, has once again proven their willingness to make bold moves to keep the championship trophy in Beantown.