Celtics
Published: Oct. 24, 2025, 9:51 a.m.
Jaden Springer
Boston Celtics guard Jaden Springer smiles after hitting a three-point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)AP
The Pelicans made a roster move just one game into the season this week, electing to release former Celtics guard Jaden Springer after their season opening loss to the Grizzlies.
Springer appeared to make the Pelicans roster after signing an Exhibit 9 deal during training camp and was active on Wednesday night on the 15-man roster. The 23-year-old did not see action but made two appearances for the Pelicans in the preseason.
The Pelicans however are close to the luxury tax line so it appears that Springer is a financial casualty of that reality. The defensive-minded guard had a non-guaranteed contract so his deal will only count for $70,732 (a few days o the official roster) on the team’s books. New Orleans is now down to 14 players on their roster and are $4 million over the cap.
What’s next for Springer is worth watching amid a tough roster landscape for young players across the league. The Celtics traded Springer to the Rockets at the 2024 trade deadline along with a second-round pick in order to trim their luxury tax penalty. The Rockets released him after the deal but he signed a 10-day deal with the Jazz before signing for the remainder of the year. Springer played in a combined 43 games between the Celtics and Jazz last year. Springer has played in 110 career games in the NBA but his questionable perimeter shooting has kept him from having staying power in the league despite his defensive ability.
Springer is expected to clear waivers later this week and could be a candidate to join the G-League or may pursue overseas opportunities as he awaits his next NBA chance.
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