Celtics Trade Jrue Holiday to Trail Blazers in Offseason Move
In a significant offseason maneuver, the Boston Celtics have traded veteran guard Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers for Anfernee Simons and two future second-round picks, as confirmed by MassLive. The picks include a 2030 selection from the New York Knicks and a 2031 choice from the Blazers.
At 34, Holiday had been a focal point in trade discussions this summer as the Celtics aimed to minimize an enormous luxury tax burden while retooling their roster. This decision came in light of the recent Achilles injury sustained by star player Jayson Tatum, prompting a shift in team strategy. Holiday now joins a young and ambitious Blazers team striving to break into the Western Conference playoff picture.
The Blazers, who originally sent Holiday to Boston two years ago in a trade for Robert Williams and Malcolm Brogdon, have taken a step toward supporting their promising core with the acquisition of the seasoned guard.
In return, the Celtics bring in Simons, a 26-year-old guard who averaged 19.3 points and 4.8 assists per game last season and is entering the final year of his contract, which is valued at $27.6 million for the 2025-26 season. This trade not only bolsters Boston’s roster but also enhances their draft capital, contributing two second-round picks that can be leveraged in upcoming drafts.
Moreover, the trade decreases the Celtics’ payroll for the upcoming season by $5 million, aligning with their goal to reshape the team while navigating financial constraints. As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches on Wednesday night, this trade positions Boston strategically for the future.
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