The offseason cost clubs would have to incur to wrest Derrick White or Jrue Holiday away from the Boston Celtics
was disclosed by Brian Robb of MassLive, and it’s hefty. So much so that, as Robb relates, a trade (far) down the road
would be the most likely course of action.
“Robb began, “Any offers for White or Holiday would be big,” then continued, “White probably has more value now
because to his age after his breakout performance this year, but for either guy, I think you are looking at promising
young talent and/or 2-3 first round picks.” Moving one of them later this decade seems like the best option in the
end from a depth perspective, although signing a larger contract (Brown?) might make things easier financially and
in terms of team building. The likelihood of a Celtics championship by 2025 drops dramatically. If not, it’s likely that
something will have to give by then.”
Holiday is eligible for an extension, but as Robb notes, he can choose to exercise his player option for $37 million,
which is probably a lot more than the Cs would provide in exchange for an extension. Since White is playing at such a
high level, his next deal is due in 2025, which would boost Boston’s tax burden into exceedingly high territory.
Brad Stevens has the authority to spend “whatever it takes” to win a championship, but something has to go,
according to Wyc Grousbeck, the owner of the Celtics, who stated as much in 2022.
“People can write or think whatever they want,” Grousbeck said, then added, “Or, you can actually look at what we
do, which is to do everything in our power to win a championship.” And at the moment, we’re all about adding on.
Will you be trading under-30 players and future draft picks? I hope not. However, as this roster demonstrates,
money is not a factor at all.”
Should the squad struggle in the postseason, there is a significant chance that White, Holiday, or possibly Jaylen
Brown may be traded to the Celtics. With the tax consequences, anything less than a Finals berth could be reason to
part ways with the nucleus of this club.
Though the NBA is among the cruelest industries in the world, there wouldn’t be many more cruel results than this
historic squad losing out on a second opportunity at a championship. Just ask the Phoenix Suns or the Jazz under
Jerry Sloan or Mike D’Antoni.
