The Boston Celtics, fresh in their championship run, are now facing tough questions. Should they move on from Kristaps Porzingis to keep the elite backcoat intact? With his $30 million contract approaching massive, the team will have to decide whether to stick to a multi-purpose big man or replace him to maintain long-term flexibility and defensiveness. This decision could shape their title defense and future roster structure.
Offseason dilemma
Kristaps Porzingis was a valuable asset when bringing healthy, size, shooting and defensive presence. However, his history of injury raises concerns about his credibility in a tough NBA season. If the Celtics want to maintain their championship window, they need to weigh whether his unique skills outweigh the risks associated with his availability. In the current season, he averages 19.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, shooting efficiently beyond the arc. His ability to make the floor space makes him a perfect fit alongside Tatum and Brown, but his durability remains the biggest question mark.
The Celtics’ title run demonstrates the importance of a deep, resilient roster. Porzingis played a key role when available, but injuries limited the impact of the postseason and forced the team to rely on the backcourt for defensive stability and scoring. This reality has forced the front office to consider whether to invest in a bigger, more reliable guy or continue to wager on Porzingis’ skill set.
Balance between the strength of the roster and future plans
Jason Tatum and Jalen Brown are out of hand, but Derrick White solidifies his role as an essential two-way player. This leaves Porzingis and Juluu holidays as potential trade works if Boston is seeking roster adjustments. Given the defensive impact of Holiday, driving Porzingis might be a more logical choice.
The challenge is to find a trading partner to absorb Porzingis’ contract, while still providing Boston with core complementary assets. A team that needs stretching with rim protection may find him attractive, but his health concerns can limit his market. As the Celtics move further out of Porzingis, they could target more durable frontcourt players who can hold paint while maintaining floor spacing.
Another factor in this decision is economic flexibility. Trading Porzingis can allow the Celtics to reposition their pay cap space to strengthen their benches and secure key roles over the long term. The NBA landscape is constantly evolving, and Boston will need to determine whether their championship aspirations are best by maintaining their current roster or making strategic adjustments to maximize their competitiveness.
I’m looking forward to the offseason
The upcoming offseason presents a vital moment. This can redefine Boston’s quest for back-to-back titles. If the Celtics decide to move Porzingis, they must ensure that trade strengthens their defensive identity while maintaining offensive efficiency. If they choose to keep him, they will need to carefully manage his minutes and build depths to reduce the retreat of potential injuries.
If other teams at the Eastern Conference improve, Boston can’t afford to stay still. Whether they choose to double their current core or shake things up, decisions on Porzingis will be one of the most important moves the franchise is making to stay above the NBA hierarchy.
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