ESPN analyst and former NBA general manager Bobby Marks recently joined NBC Sports Boston’s “Celtics Talk” podcast, where he discussed potential trade scenarios for Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday. Despite the Celtics’ deep appreciation for Holiday, financial pressures from the NBA’s second apron and the long-term implications of Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury could force the team to consider moving the veteran guard. Marks highlighted two intriguing teams as potential landing spots for Holiday: the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Clippers.
Marks noted, “I think both teams you mentioned are interesting to me with Dallas and the Clips. They’re interesting to me because they have two players who have player options with Kyrie Irving and James Harden. What happens with both those players, I think, will play a significant role as far as what the flexibility that the Clips will have and Dallas will have.”
Why Trade Holiday?
At 35 years old, Jrue Holiday remains a highly effective player, but his contract, valued at $104.4 million through the 2027-28 season (with a $37.2 million player option in the final year), poses a challenge for a Celtics team looking to manage its payroll. The second apron’s restrictions and Tatum’s injury create a need for long-term financial flexibility, making a trade a practical, albeit bittersweet, option for Boston.
Marks remains optimistic about Holiday’s value, stating, “I still think Jrue is a heck of a player. I don’t think you have to attach a pick to his contract.” If the Celtics can shed salary, add a contributor, and preserve draft capital, the move could soften the blow for fans and the organization.
Potential Trade with the Dallas Mavericks
A trade with the Dallas Mavericks could help Boston achieve its financial goals while adding a promising player. One likely centerpiece for such a deal is P.J. Washington, a 27-year-old stretch-four who averaged 13.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks this season, while shooting 38.6% from three on 4.2 attempts per game. Washington’s defensive versatility and rebounding make him an attractive fit for Boston, and his contract, which expires after the 2025-26 season, aligns with the team’s goal of staying under the second apron.
However, the Mavericks’ limited cap space could complicate the deal, likely requiring a third team to facilitate the trade. The Brooklyn Nets, with their rare cap flexibility, could be an ideal partner. For instance, Brooklyn might absorb contracts like Daniel Gafford and Dwight Powell in exchange for draft capital. If the Nets trade their own center, Nic Claxton, this summer, their interest in Gafford could grow, making this multi-team deal more feasible.
A trade centered around Washington could trim approximately $18.2 million from Boston’s payroll, providing significant relief while adding a player entering his athletic prime.
Potential Trade with the Los Angeles Clippers
A trade with the Clippers might offer less financial savings but could still help Boston navigate the second apron. One hypothetical deal could involve the Clippers sending Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kris Dunn, and Drew Eubanks to Boston in exchange for Holiday. This package would reduce Boston’s payroll by approximately $6.2 million, though it may require additional draft capital or a third team to balance salaries further.
The Clippers’ flexibility hinges on James Harden’s player option, just as Dallas’ situation depends on Kyrie Irving’s decision. If either player opts out, it could open up opportunities for Boston to strike a deal. While Marks expects both stars to stay with their respective teams, any movement would make the Clippers or Mavericks more viable trade partners.
A Bittersweet Decision
Trading Jrue Holiday would be a tough pill for Celtics fans to swallow, given his contributions on and off the court. However, with the right trade package, Boston could address its financial constraints while acquiring young, versatile talent like P.J. Washington or a combination of role players from the Clippers. By preserving draft capital and shedding salary, the Celtics could position themselves for long-term success, even in the wake of Tatum’s injury.
As Marks emphasized, Holiday’s value remains high, and the Celtics may not need to sweeten any deal with additional assets. Whether it’s Dallas, Los Angeles, or another team, Boston has options to explore if they decide to part ways with their veteran guard.