Kristaps Porzingis ended up being the Celtics’ second big trade of the summer as he was dealt to the Hawks as part of a three-team deal. Jrue Holiday was moved to the Trail Blazers a day before, ending what was a short-but-successful tenure for both veterans.
Porzingis released a statement on social media after the trade. The big man seemingly loved playing in front of the TD Garden crowd, pumping the fans up and enjoying his WWE moments when he walked out of the tunnel.
“Boston will always be special in my heart,” Porzingis wrote. “Huge thank you to the organization, coaches, staff, my teammates and the fans! Class organization. Forever grateful.”
Porzingis is now onto Atlanta where the Hawks are looking to take steps toward competitiveness. In the meantime, the Celtics got Georges Niang in return as they successfully dipped under the second apron after dealing Holiday and Porzingis.
The Celtics are expected to continue dealing this summer to continue cutting costs. It’s no surprise the C’s need to clear up their cap space as this summer of trades always loomed on the horizon. Porzingis was a casualty as his $30.7 million contract was moved as the Celtics now save a significant amount in luxury tax penalties.
Porzingis ends his two-year run in Boston as a champion, having won the 2024 NBA title with the franchise. Availability continued to be an issue as he struggled to stay healthy; his illness against the Knicks in the playoffs was an unfortunate subplot. But when he was healthy, Porzingis was effective on both ends of the court. Regardless, he’ll always be remembered as a champion in Boston.