Celtics Look to Cut Costs with Kristaps Porzingis Trade Rumors
By Conor Roche | June 8, 2025
The Boston Celtics are gearing up for a cost-effective offseason, with rumors swirling around a potential trade involving Kristaps Porzingis. Currently in the second year of a two-year, $60 million extension, Porzingis holds a hefty $30.7 million salary for the 2025-26 season. To navigate financial penalties stemming from luxury tax overages, the Celtics need to trim at least $20 million from their payroll, and trading Porzingis could facilitate that goal.
Several teams have emerged as possible trade partners for the Celtics. The Brooklyn Nets, armed with approximately $91 million in cap space, would be an ideal fit. They could absorb Porzingis’s contract without sending significant assets back, although the Celtics might have to include draft picks to sweeten the deal.
The Utah Jazz, recently led by new president Austin Ainge, may also be interested in reuniting with Porzingis, given their prior interest. However, unlike the Nets, the Jazz would need to send salary back, potentially involving players like guard Jordan Clarkson.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons are also in the mix. The Lakers, lacking a quality big man, might view Porzingis as a solution, though any deal would require complex salary maneuvers. Meanwhile, the Pistons, who could benefit from Porzingis’s floor-stretching abilities alongside young star Cade Cunningham, can easily accommodate his salary, potentially involving players like Isaiah Stewart in a deal.
Finally, the Golden State Warriors are exploring frontcourt options and could offer useful rotation players in a trade for Porzingis.
As the offseason approaches, the Celtics must weigh their options carefully, balancing immediate financial needs with long-term potential.
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