The Celtics tweaked their roster to not only save money but add some depth to the front court earlier this week. But in doing so, they did create a bit of a question mark when it comes to the bottom of the roster. To recap the moves, the C’s traded Georges Niang and two second-round picks to the Jazz for two-way wing RJ Luis. Then they signed Chris Boucher to a one-year contract.
Boston entered this week with 14 standard roster spots, so it didn’t see much movement when it came to the main club. With Niang gone, the Celtics used the newly-open roster slot to sign Boucher. That move allowed the Celtics to save money while also giving C’s coach Joe Mazzulla another option in the 6-foot-9 Boucher.
However, the Celtics are now full when it comes to their three two-way slots. Luis went undrafted this year before signing a two-way deal with the Jazz. The Celtics already had Miles Norris signed from last year and they inked Max Shulga, the 57th overall pick, to a two-way contract, as well.
That means of the Celtics’ three 2025 draft picks, only big man Amari Williams, the 46th overall selection, remains unsigned. Williams was expected to also sign a two-way contract, though things have changed. Boston agreed to terms with Hugo Gonzalez, picked in the first round at 28th overall, to a contract ahead of Summer League.
While two-way signees often aren’t the biggest names, the Celtics have had success developing their guys in recent years. Sam Hauser went undrafted in 2021 and started on a two-way contract — now he’s a crucial rotation piece and helped them win a title. Those players on the roster’s margins have helped in the past, including Luke Kornet, who played with the Maine Celtics in the G League during the 2021-22 season.
The Celtics likely have a plan when it comes to some roster housekeeping. Right now, they have 14 signed players on the standard roster and three two-way players. They could sign Williams to a standard roster spot as he won’t cost them much, though they’ve kept that 15th roster slot open in past seasons. Perhaps the Celtics end up waiving one of their guys, whether that’s Luis or Norris, but that remains to be seen.
Regardless, the front office has been unafraid to continue picking at the roster. The Celtics have cut costs significantly this offseason as they’re now roughly $4 million above the first apron line of the salary cap. If they’re able to continue making moves, that’ll allow them cap relief going forward. Considering it’s a retooling season due to Jayson Tatum’s injury, the front office has altered the roster significantly with an eye on the future.
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