BREAKING: The Boston Celtics have just traded forward Georges Niang and two future second-round picks to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr., sources confirm. This strategic move allows the Celtics to shed Niang’s significant salary, which exceeds $8 million, into Utah’s trade exception stemming from the John Collins deal.
In a related development, the Celtics have secured a one-year, $3.3 million contract with highly sought-after free agent Chris Boucher, according to agent Sam Permut of Roc Nation. These maneuvers have positioned Boston $7.8 million below the second apron, while also saving the team an impressive $34 million in luxury tax penalties.
Since the NBA Draft, the Celtics have dramatically reduced their payroll from $540 million to $239 million, a significant restructuring aimed at enhancing team flexibility. Boucher, who has a guaranteed deal, is expected to play a pivotal role in the Celtics’ frontcourt. He leaves the Toronto Raptors as the franchise’s all-time leader in points, rebounds, blocks, minutes, and games played off the bench, marking the end of an era as he was the last remaining player from Toronto’s 2019 NBA Championship team.
Niang, who is entering his 10th season in the league, previously joined the Celtics in a trade involving Kristaps Porzingis with the Atlanta Hawks. He returns to Utah, where he spent four productive seasons from 2017 to 2021. Known for his sharpshooting, Niang holds a career average of 39.9% from beyond the arc on more than four attempts per game.
The Celtics’ recent roster moves reflect a strong commitment to building a competitive team while managing financial responsibilities effectively. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these changes will impact the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
