If there’s one play Celtics fans will remember from Jrue Holiday’s two-year tenure in Boston, it’s going to be the steal on Andrew Nembhard in Game 3 of the 2024 East Finals. The Pacers had a chance to snatch the win, but instead, Holiday’s clutch steal helped secure the victory. Then, later, Holiday helped win the 2024 NBA championship.
Or, on a funnier note, how Boston president Brad Stevens looked at Holiday at his introductory news conference was also amusing. It was clear the Celtics were thrilled to land Holiday from the Trail Blazers in the wake of the Damian Lillard.
In a somewhat strange twist, Holiday is going right back to Portland. The Celtics shipped him out to the Blazers in exchange for Anfernee Simons and a pair of future second-round picks. The trade was cap-motivated as the C’s get long-term salary relief by getting out of the rest of Holiday’s contract.
Holiday will likely be remembered fondly by Celtics fans even though he was only a part of the team for two seasons. The veteran guard was a key piece of the 2024 title squad as he elevated his game significantly throughout the playoff run. Holiday was exactly what the C’s needed during his first season, knocking down 3-pointers while living up to his reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.
Now, Holiday did see his offensive production see a dip throughout his second season. He was also slowed down by some injuries. His defense was still stellar during the playoffs, but the Celtics were upset in the second round to the Knicks.
Ultimately, considering the Celtics needing to shed salary, dealing Holiday felt natural considering his contract status and how he still clearly had trade value. Perhaps the path could’ve been different had Jayson Tatum not ruptured his Achilles tendon. But with the Celtics looking to retool this offseason, Holiday was a luxury at this point.
All in all, while it was short, it was just about the perfect tenure for Holiday. He was able to come in and affect a great Celtics squad on their way to Banner No. 18. Holiday wasn’t relied upon for much offensive production, and his defensive versatility was a consistent tool for the Celtics. When Holiday matched up against a center on some possessions, it allowed the C’s some much-needed flexibility.
Part of Holiday’s value, too, is that he’s known around the NBA as a winner. That’s what happens when a player wins a championship for two different franchises. The Blazers clearly view him favorably as they’ll hope he can mentor the young guards on their roster like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. The Blazers are also a team on the rise as they look to take steps towards the playoffs with Holiday part of the mix.