In a stealth move that has sent ripples through the NBA, the Boston Celtics have secured 6-foot-8 forward Josh Minott on a two-year, $5 million contract, as announced on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. The former Minnesota Timberwolves second-round pick from the 2022 draft brings a tantalizing blend of size and potential to a Celtics roster poised for transformation. However, this signing pushes Boston just over the second luxury tax apron, signaling that president of basketball operations Brad Stevens may have more surprises up his sleeve.
Minott, who struggled to secure consistent minutes in Minnesota—averaging just 5 minutes per game across 93 appearances over three seasons—now has a golden opportunity to carve out a meaningful role in Boston. With the Celtics facing a potential talent drain in their frontcourt, Minott’s length and athleticism could see him thrive under head coach Joe Mazzulla’s system. While his limited NBA experience makes his upside a bit of a mystery, his physical tools suggest he could become a versatile contributor for a team looking to rebuild its depth.
A Strategic Shift in Boston
The Celtics’ acquisition of Minott comes at a pivotal moment, as the team braces for a challenging season without superstar Jayson Tatum. Stevens appears to be leaning into a youth movement, adding untested talents like Minott and Luka Garza to inject fresh energy into the roster. This approach signals a shift toward cost-effective roster building, with an eye on developing low-cost contributors who could anchor the next iteration of a contending Celtics squad.
By signing Minott, Boston is betting on potential over proven production. If Stevens can unearth one or two diamonds in the rough, the Celtics could maintain their competitive edge while navigating financial constraints—a masterclass in roster management for a franchise fresh off a 2024 NBA championship.
Anfernee Simons: A Trade on the Horizon?
Another intriguing subplot in Boston’s offseason is the uncertain future of guard Anfernee Simons, who arrived via the blockbuster trade that sent Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers. Simons, known for his electrifying perimeter scoring, brings offensive firepower to the Celtics. However, his defensive shortcomings have sparked speculation about his long-term fit.
An NBA executive, speaking to Steve Bulpett of Heavy on Sports, hinted at Simons’ precarious position: “If you’re writing about Simons’ fit with the Celtics, you’d better move fast. Boston’s still exploring trades, and he could be gone if the right deal comes along.” While Simons’ ability to light up the scoreboard could complement Mazzulla’s system, his defensive limitations may prompt Stevens to flip him for assets that better align with Boston’s vision. The coming weeks will reveal whether Simons is a cornerstone or a trade chip.
Al Horford’s Potential Departure Looms Large
Adding another layer of intrigue, veteran center Al Horford remains unsigned, and his future with the Celtics is uncertain. The 39-year-old big man, a linchpin of Boston’s rotation with his pick-and-pop prowess, is reportedly drawing interest from contenders across the league. According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Golden State Warriors are poised to make a strong push for Horford, eyeing him as a perfect fit alongside their veteran core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler.
Horford’s potential exit would leave a gaping hole in Boston’s frontcourt. Without him, Mazzulla would rely on a center rotation of Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, Amari Williams, and Xavier Tillman—a group that pales in comparison to last season’s depth. While Horford has earned the right to chase another ring elsewhere, his departure would underscore the Celtics’ transition into a rebuilding phase, with Stevens prioritizing flexibility over immediate contention.
A New Chapter for the Celtics
The signing of Josh Minott, coupled with the potential trades and departures, marks a bold pivot for the Boston Celtics. As Stevens reshapes the roster, the focus is clear: build a sustainable, cost-effective core capable of competing in the post-Tatum era. Minott’s arrival may be the first of many calculated risks, with the towering forward poised to prove himself on a bigger stage. Whether he becomes a rotation staple or a footnote in Boston’s storied history remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the Celtics are making waves, and the NBA is watching.