Boston, August 6, 2025
News Summary
The Boston Celtics have made significant roster changes by trading forward Georges Niang to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr. and two future second-round draft picks. Additionally, the Celtics signed Chris Boucher to a one-year contract worth $3.3 million, enhancing their frontcourt depth. This strategic move reduces Boston’s luxury tax bill significantly, saving the franchise $8 million. The Celtics are undergoing a rebuilding phase, especially as star player Jayson Tatum recovers from an injury.
Boston – In a significant roster reshuffle, the Boston Celtics have traded forward Georges Niang to the Utah Jazz, along with two future second-round draft picks, in exchange for rookie RJ Luis Jr. The trade, confirmed on Tuesday via ESPN, marks a strategic move for the Celtics as they continue to navigate their roster in the offseason.
As part of another pivotal deal, the Celtics have also signed forward Chris Boucher to a one-year contract worth $3.3 million. Boucher, who has spent the last seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors, was part of the Raptors’ championship team in 2019. His addition provides Boston with much-needed frontcourt depth.
This trade signifies the Celtics’ intent to save on their financial commitments; Niang’s departure allows the team to shed the final year of his contract and results in a savings of $8 million in luxury tax implications. Following the acquisition of Boucher, Boston is now positioned nearly $8 million below the second penalty apron of the luxury tax and approximately $5.4 million above the first apron. The tax bill for Boston has dropped dramatically from $73.1 million to $30.4 million as a result of these trades.
Niang, who has previous experience with the Jazz, had just joined the Celtics a month prior through a three-team trade that saw Kristaps Porzingis sent to Atlanta. Last season, Niang appeared in 79 games, split between Atlanta and Cleveland, averaging 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. He boasts a career-high three-point shooting percentage of 40% from the previous season, bringing veteran experience to Utah’s youthful roster, which includes their recent first-round draft pick, Ace Bailey.
Rookie RJ Luis Jr., who will be making his way to Boston, is coming off an impressive collegiate career, having been named the 2024-25 Big East Player of the Year while playing for St. John’s University. With the Celtics undergoing a reconstructive phase, especially as star player Jayson Tatum recovers from an Achilles tear sustained during the playoff series against the Knicks, Luis Jr. may become an important part of the team’s future developments.
The Celtics’ offseason has been busy, with moves involving not only Niang but also others like Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, JD Davison, Jrue Holiday, and Al Horford. There are ongoing reports indicating that the Celtics are also actively considering offers for guard Anfernee Simons, who is in the final year of his $27.7 million contract. This trend suggests the Celtics are attempting to build a more competitive team capable of contending in the upcoming seasons.
Ultimate implications of these trades reflect Boston’s strategy aimed at balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term financial prudence amidst a shifting roster landscape.
FAQ
What did the Boston Celtics do in their recent trade?
The Celtics traded forward Georges Niang and two future second-round draft picks to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr. They also signed Chris Boucher to a one-year contract worth $3.3 million.
Why did the Celtics trade Georges Niang?
The trade allows Boston to shed the final year of Niang’s contract, saving the team $8 million in luxury tax costs.
Who is RJ Luis Jr.?
RJ Luis Jr. is a rookie from St. John’s University, who was the 2024-25 Big East Player of the Year.
How has Boucher performed in his career?
Chris Boucher averaged 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season, providing solid experience and depth for the Celtics.
What changes are anticipated for the Celtics this offseason?
This offseason is considered a rebuilding year for Boston, especially as star player Jayson Tatum recovers from an injury. The Celtics remain active in exploring other trade options, including guard Anfernee Simons.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trade Overview | Celtics trade Georges Niang to Jazz for RJ Luis Jr. and two future second-round draft picks. |
| New Signing | Chris Boucher signed to one-year $3.3 million contract. |
| Tax Savings | Boston saves $8 million in luxury tax; tax bill reduces from $73.1 million to $30.4 million. |
| Player Stats – Niang | Averaged 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game last season. |
| Player Stats – Boucher | Averaged 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season. |
| Team Status | Celtics are rebuilding while Jayson Tatum recovers from injury. |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- NBA.com: Celtics Trade Georges Niang to Jazz
- New York Post: Celtics Trade Georges Niang to Jazz
- CelticsBlog: Celtics Trade Georges Niang
- NBC Sports Boston: Georges Niang Trade
- SI.com: Celtics Trade Georges Niang
- Wikipedia: Boston Celtics
- Google Search: Georges Niang
- Google Scholar: Georges Niang
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boston Celtics
- Google News: Boston Celtics
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