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[Boston Celtics]

Baylor Scheierman tells funny Joe Mazzulla story, reflects on rookie season

Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images

Scheierman reflected on a rookie season with limited minutes — and on a training camp conversation he had with the Celtics head coach.

Baylor Scheierman spent the first half of his rookie season with the Maine Celtics. Then, in mid-January, the 30th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft joined the parent club, ultimately clawing his way into the rotation in March.

March turned out to be a standout month for the former Creighton star — Scheierman averaged 6.3 points, shooting 48.8% from the field and 47.4% from three.

The run was highlighted by a 20-point outburst against the Brooklyn Nets on March 18th, in which he hit 6 of 7 three-pointer attempts. That outing came just a few weeks after a 15-point night against the Philadelphia 76ers.

“The Garden was definitely rocking that night,” Scheierman said in an interview with CLNS Media’s Garden Report. “That stretch of those two games definitely gave me a lot of confidence going into the remainder of the season, that I can do it. I never really didn’t think I could do it.”

Scheierman said he knew from the beginning that it would be difficult to make the Celtics rotation.

That’s because Joe Mazzulla blatantly told him that right after training camp.

“Before the season started, I had a meeting with him and he was pretty much like, ‘Listen, I don’t really like rookies, so you’re gonna have to battle this year, and that’s kind of how it is,’” Scheierman said. “And I was like, ‘All right, that’s all right.”

While some NBA players might have been turned off by that type of proclamation, Scheierman appreciated his new coach’s honesty.

“I really respect Joe, and I like his bluntness,” he said.

“That’s kind of how he coached me — just very blunt and just telling me how it is, and how it was gonna be, and I can appreciate that because then there’s no miscommunications about what’s going on or what’s to be expected.”

Baylor Scheierman could see a larger role in the rotation next season ​

Heading into his sophomore season, Scheierman could be due for a larger opportunity. While it’s not yet clear which Celtics will be on the roster next season, Jayson Tatum’s injury alone opens the door for more minutes for the versatile 24-year-old wing.

“It’s a challenge, but you just have to be ready to take advantage of the opportunities you get,” Scheierman said, noting that the goal is to get into Mazzulla’s circle of trust. “I knew coming into the year that opportunities are gonna be limited with bringing everybody back from a team that just won a championship... I was ready to make an impact when my number was called.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...eierman-joe-mazzulla-boston-celtics-offseason

 

[Boston Celtics]

Which Celtics would make the best (and worst) roommates? Baylor Scheierman weighs in

Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images

The Celtics rookie sat down for an all-encompassing, 35-minute interview on his rookie season, relationship with Joe Mazzulla, and much more.

Just a few weeks after the conclusion of his rookie season, Baylor Scheierman joined CLNS Media’s Garden Report for an all-encompassing interview on his first year in the NBA, his offseason so far, his relationship with Joe Mazzulla, and a whole lot more.

Scheierman also answered light-hearted questions — from who the best football and golf players on the team are, which Celtics players would make the best and worst roommates, unlikely friendships, and much more.

Here’s a lightly edited snippet of what he had to say in the interview, conducted by Noa Dalzell, Bobby Manning, and John Zannis.

You can watch the full, 35-minute show here.

Noa Dalzell: Who is a particularly close Celtics teammate of yours that would maybe surprise other people?

Baylor Scheierman: Me and Derrick White have a really fun relationship, and you saw that a little bit in the social media world.

The first time I met Derrick was actually in Nebraska. He was in Lincoln for the Colorado vs Nebraska game and and I went to the game and one of my high school buddies texted me and was like, ‘Derrick’s here.’ So I went to where he was at and that was our first time meeting and then we hung out all day, went to the game together and that started our relationship off really well. Obviously, he’s a tremendous player, but then obviously just really enjoy being around him off the court as well.”

Dalzell: Of all your current Celtics teammates, which would make the best roommate and which would make the worst?

Scheierman: Worst roommate would be D-White – he argues about everything. He’s never wrong. The best would probably be Al [Horford]. Simple guy. Probably goes to bed early.

Manning: Who is your NBA player comp?

Scheierman: Obviously, a lot of people say Joe Ingles. I like that comp. I like watching Austin Reaves play. Max Strus. All of those guys.

John Zannis: Is there one player that you’d be embarrassed to say ‘I’m kind of like that guy’ because they’re a star, and people would think if I start comparing myself to this person I’m arrogant?

There’s one guy in our chat that is constantly saying Luka Doncic.

Scheierman: I definitely watched him a lot in high school and college. Everyone obviously thinks – 6’7, white, shooter. My passing ability might even be my best quality sometime. If you’re going to say it, I’m not going to argue with you, but I probably wouldn’t say it off the rip.

I watched [Rajon] Rondo a lot, Pistol Pete, Jason Williams.

Zannis: I will be heartbroken if I never get to play another minute with ____

Scheierman: Can I say everybody?

There’s a lot of guys I could throw out. I’d probably say Jrue Holiday. We continued to build a relationship over the course of the year. Dude’s just funny, and he’s a good guy.

He’s been in the league forever, and has accomplished some crazy things. You wouldn’t necessarily know about it just by meeting him – he’s a very down-to-earth guy. We’ve got a lot of those guys on the team.

Dalzell: If you’re the best football player on the team, who is No. 2?

Scheierman: Such a great question. Everyone says they’re a good football player, but none of them actually played. Payton [Pritchard] swears he was so good, and I was like ‘When’d you stop playing?’ And he was like ‘seventh grade’ so I was like ‘Oh, okay, so you didn’t play.”

I feel Jaylen [Brown] would be pretty good. I’d put him at No. 2 probably.

Sam [Hauser] played. I’d put him high up there as well.

Manning: Who’s the best golfer on the team?

Scheierman: Sam. Sam’s the best golfer. For sure.

Zannis: If something ever starts up on the court – there’s a little beef, you’re about to throw hands, who is the one teammate you would want standing behind you?

Scheierman: I don’t think I’m ever throwing hands.

I’d probably say JB or Al [Horford]. Al’s got five kids, so he’s got that dad strength. I’d probably say him or JB.

Dalzell: If you could pick any NBA player to jersey swap with, who would it be?

Scheierman: I’d probably do Steph [Curry]. Middle school, high school, when the Warriors were having their dynasty – watching them play and just how skilled he is, how good he’s become. He’s not the most athletic, he can’t jump the highest, but he’s the best shooter ever. There’s a lot of other stuff he does well.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...lla-derrick-white-al-horford-payton-pritchard

 

[Boston Celtics]

12 top Celtics draft prospects, from Ryan Kalkbrenner to Hunter Sallis

Photo by Porter Binks/Getty Images

Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports shares 12 draft prospects the Celtics might consider with picks No. 28 and 32 in the upcoming NBA Draft.

The Celtics are entering an offseason of uncertainty. As it currently stands, the 2024 NBA champions have the No. 28 and No. 32 picks in the upcoming NBA Draft, which is slated for June 25th.

Longtime draft expert Kevin O’Connor, of Yahoo Sports, joined Celtics podcast You Got Boston to discuss 12 potential prospects who might be available — and be selected — at No. 28 and No. 32.

If you’re just beginning to wade into the draft world and want to learn more about these prospects, I recommend exploring the two draft guides I reference throughout this article: Kevin O’Connor’s Big Board on Yahoo Sports and The Ringer’s Big Board.

Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton​

Class: Senior, age 23
Position: Big
Measurements: 7’1, 257 lbs
Comparison: Jakob Poetl, Walker Kessler, Luke Kornet
Projected draft spot: 29 (Yahoo Sports), 35 (The Ringer)

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images
Ryan Kalkbrenner is a popular prospective Celtics draft seleciton.

Yahoo Sports description: “Kalkbrenner is a throwback 7-footer who owns the paint, swatting shots with his giant wingspan and dunking everything in sight. It’s a bit strange that he isn’t a better rebounder. But as a super senior, he’s also developed some sneaky passing and shooting skills that hint at higher upside.”

The Ringer description: “Colossal big and interior presence on both ends.”

Thomas Sorber, Georgetown​

Class: Freshman, age 19
Position: Big
Measurements: 6’10, 253 lbs
Comparisons: Jonas Valunciunas, Jusuf Nukic, Kevon Looney, Trayce-Jackson Davis
Projected draft spot: 21 (Yahoo Sports), 16 (The Ringer)

Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber could emerge as a post player of the future for the Celtics.

Yahoo Sports description: “Sorber has a brick-house frame and the throwback skill-set to match with strong screens, soft-touch finishes, and gritty drop-coverage instincts. But to be more than a role player, he needs to tap into the flashes he shows as a shooter while also improving his perimeter defense.”

The Ringer description: “Disciplined two-way big man who wins with physicality and processes the game at 1.25-time speed.”

Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State​

Class: Junior, age 22
Position: Big
Measurements: 7’0, 243 lbs
Comparisons: DeAndre Jordan
Projected draft spot: 33 (Yahoo Sports)

Yanic Konan Niederhauser at the draft combine

Yahoo Sports description: “Konan Niederhauser is an elite athlete who lives above the rim as a finisher and shot blocker, and he displays some intriguing upside as a 7-foot shot creator. But he needs to improve his fundamentals to make it all click.”

Joan Berninger, France​

Class: 18
Position: Big
Measurements: 6’10, 230 lbs
Comparisons: Clint Capela, Nerlens Noel, Daniel Gafford
Projected draft spot: 34 (Yahoo Sports), 30 (The Ringer)

Yahoo Sports description: “Berninger began playing basketball only three years ago, which makes him a raw project, but also makes his natural talents all the more impressive. He’s a center but has the quickness of a guard, giving him immense defensive versatility to build on for years to come.”

The Ringer description: “Instinctive, physically gifted big man who’s as raw as sashimi.”

Drake Powell, North Carolina​

Class: Freshman, age 19
Position: Wing
Measurements: 6’5, 200 lbs
Comparisons: Mikal Bridges, Isaac Okoro, Taurean Prince, Terance Mann
Projected draft spot: 16 (Yahoo Sports), 21 (The Ringer)

Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Yahoo Sports description: “Powell has a chiseled frame that he uses to barrel into defenders at the rim and to contain opponents when he’s on defense. He’s a switch-everything defender who plays with a high motor, and if his spot-up jumper translates, he checks all the boxes to be a 3-and-D role player at a minimum.”

The Ringer description: “Lean and mean two-way wing with the tools to be switchy on defense and swishy when spacing the floor.”

Nique Clifford, Colorado State​

Class: Junior, age 23
Position: Wing
Measurements: 6’6, 203 lbs
Comparisons: Justin Holiday, Moses Moody, Josh Hart, Khris Middleton, Desmond Bane
Projected draft spot: 14 (The Ringer), 18 (Yahoo Sports)

Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images

Yahoo Sports description: “Clifford is a tough-as-nails wing who does it all. He defends multiple positions, crashes the boards, and scores from everywhere. But as a super senior with only Mountain West pedigree, he lacks experience against high level competition despite his age.”

The Ringer description: “Mature, well-rounded wing with an ideal physical frame for the modern NBA game.”

Hugo Gonzalez, Spain​

Class: Age 19
Measurements: 6’6, 205 lbs
Position: Wing
Comparisons: Josh Green, Nikola Djurisic
Projected draft spot: 23 (Yahoo Sports), 45 (The Ringer)

Photo by Sara Gordon/Real Madrid via Getty Images
Hugo Gonzalez hasn’t gotten a ton of run with Real Madrid, but is a prospective first-round pick the Celtics could draft.

Yahoo Sports description: “Gonzalez is a high-motor wing with great defensive tools and a slashing style on offense. If his jumper and handle develop, he could be a versatile two-way starter. But he barely even played off the bench overseas.”

The Ringer description: “High-energy wing whose role is somewhere amid a haze of concerns about his shooting and decision-making.”

Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s​

Class: Junior, age 20
Measurements: 6’9, 232 lbs
Position: Wing
Comparisons: Larry Nance Jr., Brandon Bass
Projected draft spot: 25 (Yahoo Sports), 23 (The Ringer)

Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images
Saint Joseph’s Rasheer Fleming could emerge as one of this draft class’s elite defenders.

Yahoo Sports description: “Fleming is a hustler who drains spot-up jumpers and brings energy on defense, swatting shots and snagging boards. But he has some real warts as a ball-handler with a lack of experience against high-level competition, so teams will have to feel real confident his role player skill-set will translate.”

The Ringer description: “Athletic, play-finishing 3-and-D big man with a retrofuturistic style lifted directly from NBA Live 06’s Create-a-Player assembly line.”

Noah Penda, France​

Class: Age 20
Measurements: 6’8, 225 lbs
Position: Wing
Comparisons: Naji Marshall, Nicolas Batum
Projected draft spot: 17 (The Ringer), 31 (Yahoo Sports)

Noah Penda’s high IQ and unselfish game could make him a great fit on the Celtics.

Yahoo Sports description: “Penda plays with a veteran’s mind and a winning mentality, offering connective playmaking, switchable defense, and high-level feel. He’ll need to improve his jumper to stick long-term, but his unselfish game and defensive utility give him a strong foundation.”

The Ringer description: “Instinctive, big-bodied defender with all the glue-guy skills to stay on the floor as he hones his offensive repertoire.”

Alijah Martin, Florida​

Class: Senior, age 23
Position: Wing
Measurements: 6’2, 210 lbs
Comparisons: De’Anthony Melton, Derrick Jones Jr.
Projected draft spot: 40 (Yahoo Sports)

Alijah Martin is a prospective Celtics second-round pick.

Yahoo Sports description: “Martin is a hyper-athletic, high-energy guard who plays bigger than his size and impacts the game with his toughness, rebounding, and defensive grit. But his positional tweener status, streaky shooting, and limited creation ability complicate his ability to carve out a specialized role.”

Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest​

Class: Age 22
Position: Guard
Measurements: 6’5, 181 lbs
Comparisons: Donte DiVincenzo
Projected draft spot: 38 (Yahoo Sports)

Wake Forest’s Hunter Sallis could bring shot creation and at-rim finishing to the Celtics.

Yahoo Sports description: “Sallis is a poised, efficient scorer with body control, defensive tenacity, and the passing feel to hint at more upside. If the jumper proves real, he could play a much larger offensive role than his current projection.”

Adou Thiero, Arkansas​

Class: Junior, age 21
Position: Wing
Measurements: 6’6, 218 lbs
Comparisons: Toumani Camara, Haywood Highsmith, Torrey Craig
Projected draft spot: 35 (Yahoo Sports), 34 (The Ringer)

Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images
Adou Thiero could emerge as one of the draft’s permier 3-and-D players.

Yahoo Sports description: “Thiero is a slasher with a jacked frame and an explosive first step, but he has severe limitations on offense as a shooter. If he’s able to figure out the shot then his length and versatility would make him a classic 3-and-D role player.”

The Ringer description: “Switchable forward who is perpetually shot out of a cannon and is able to sprinkle value across the stat sheet.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...r-ryan-kalkbrenner-thomas-sorber-drake-powell

 

[Boston Celtics]

Catch Pacers-Indiana Oklahoma City Thunder Game 2 live on Playback

Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images

The Indiana Pacers continue to find ways to cheat death.

At this point, we shouldn’t be surprised that the Indiana Pacers discover new ways to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. The Pacers have now pulled off a mind-melting comeback in every round of the playoffs. It’s what they do. And now, the Oklahoma City Thunder are faced with a must-win in the Finals. Catch the action in the CelticsBlog Playback room.

Download the Playback app today and be part of the conversation as the action unfolds.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...-on-playback-nba-finals-tyrese-haliburton-sga

 

[Boston Celtics]

7 potential Celtics draft targets, according to one NBA Draft expert

Tyler Rucker of “No Ceilings NBA” outlines 7 players the players might select with picks No. 28 and No. 32 — from Florida’s Walter Clayton to Michigan’s Danny Wolf.

The Celtics have the No. 28 and No. 32 picks in the upcoming NBA Draft, and with their total salary continuing to balloon, securing some cheap(er) talent via the draft is as important as ever.

With that in mind, CelticsBlog sat down with Tyler Rucker, the founder of No Ceilings NBA, and a longtime NBA Draft expert. Rucker identified 7 realistic but impactful prospects that the Celtics could draft with either the No. 28 or No. 32 picks.

You can watch the full episode here and buy the full No Ceilings guide here.

And, if you’re looking to get into the draft and dive deeper into these prospects, I’ll recommend three draft guides I reference throughout this article: The Ringer’s Big Board, Kevin O’Connor’s Big Board on Yahoo Sports, and No Ceiling’s Big Board.

Now, let’s take a look at the prospects.

Maxime Raynaud (Stanford) ​

Class: Senior, age 22
Measurements: 7’1, 237 lbs
Comparison: Brooke Lopez, Rasheed Wallace
Projected draft spot: 14 (Yahoo Sports), 36 (The Ringer), 34 (No Ceilings)

Photo by Melissa Tamez/NBAE via Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “Raynaud has leveled up every year at Stanford, turning into a player who pops 3s, slashes to the rim with a smooth handle, and makes eye-popping passes. As a talented passer who also offers solid defense, there’s little reason to think the Frenchman won’t carve out an NBA role.”

The Ringer: “Promising big man who wields an intriguing blend of spacing upside and interior physicality.”

No Ceilings: “Seven-footers who can shoot like Maxime Raynaud don’t grow on trees. His passing feel and solid handle for his position also helps his case; Raynaud has an argument as one of the best offensive big men in the class.”

Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton​

Class: Senior, age 23
Measurements: 7’1, 257 lbs
NBA comparisons: Jakob Poetl, Walker Kessler, Luke Kornet
Projected draft spot: 29 (Yahoo Sports), 35 (The Ringer), 38 (No Ceilings)

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “Kalkbrenner is a throwback 7-footer who owns the paint, swatting shots with his giant wingspan and dunking everything in sight. It’s a bit strange he isn’t a better rebounder. But as a super senior, he’s also developed some sneaky passing and shooting skills that hint at higher upside.”

The Ringer: “Colossal big and interior presence on both ends.”

No Ceilings: “Ryan Kalkbrenner has consistently been one of the best rim protectors in college basketball for years, and he pairs that with being one of the most efficient offensive big men in college basketball history. Now that he’s started to shoot threes, his already-lethal offensive game is even more.”

Kam Jones (Marquette)​

Class: Junior, age 23
Measurements: 6’3, 202 lbs
Comparison: Shake Milton, Damion Lee, Donte DiVincenzo
Projected draft spot: 36 (Yahoo Sports), 47 (The Ringer), 35 (No Ceilings)

Yahoo Sports: “Jones offers crafty combo guard skills with advanced shot creation and a blossoming playmaking feel. But his so-so athleticism and streaky shooting paint him as just a cog rather than the rare star upperclassmen set to enter the league.”

The Ringer: “In a world where everybody needs well-rounded guards who can just play basketball, he’ll always have a home.”

No Ceilings: “Kam Jones has been getting buckets for Marquette for many years now, and his playmaking leap this season makes him even more intriguing. Teams in need of guard help and scoring punch will be well-served by looking Kam Jones’s way.”

Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida)​

Class: Senior, age 22
Measurements: 6’2, 199 lbs
Comparison: Jamal Murray, CJ McCollum, Jordan Clarkson, Kemba Walker, Jameer Nelson, Fred Van Fleet
Projected draft spot: 33 (The Ringer), 28 (Yahoo Sports), 25 (No Ceilings)

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “Clayton is a fearless shooter with the versatility to take any shot at any moment, as we saw when he led Florida to the national championship. But his limitations as a defender hold him back from being an elite prospect.”

The Ringer: “Multifaceted shooter who punishes the defense with the mere idea of his beyond-the-arc scoring.”

No Ceilings: “If you need a steady veteran point guard with excellent shooting touch and a great handle, Walter Clayton Jr. is the player for you. He also brings championship pedigree as the leader of this year’s title-winning Florida Gators squad - a factor that NBA teams will certainly not overlook.”

Danny Wolf (Michigan)​

Class: Junior, age 20
Measurements: 6’11
Comparison: Kelly Olynk, Hedo Turkoglu, Naz Reid
Projected draft spot: 32 (Yahoo Sports), 13 (The Ringer), 18 (No Ceilings)

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “Wolf is 6-foot-11 but ran point for Michigan, playing a slick style with risky passes and step-back jumpers that made him a highlight factory. But he’s also a turnover machine and his shooting numbers are shaky, making him more of a raw bet who needs time to prove he can match his flash with substance.”

The Ringer: “An enticing mix of face-up sauciness, playmaking, and size, but athleticism questions loom.”

No Ceilings: “Unique big man with impressive playmaking and ball-handling skills, often taking on the role of primary initiator. His ability to stretch the floor adds another layer to his game, but improving his decision-making will be key to unlocking his full potential.”

Ben Saraf (Ratiopharm Ulm) ​

Class: Age 19
Measurements: 6’5, 200 lbs
Comparison: Ramon Sessions, Goran Dragic, D’Angelo Russell, Tyrese Haliburton
Projected draft spot: 26 (The Ringer), 27 (Yahoo Sports)

Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “Saraf is a crafty lefty playmaker who relies on guile, footwork, and body control. Limited shooting and athleticism could cap his upside, but his positional size and skill could be hard to pass up.”

The Ringer: “Lefty jitterbug with some of the best passing talent and creativity in the draft class.”

No Ceilings: “An Israeli combo guard with a unique blend of downhill burst and creativity as a passer, Saraf has already made an impact playing for Ratiopharm Ulm, the German prospet powerhouse. His ability to score, facilitate, and use his athleticism to break down defenses makes him an intriguing prospect with substantial upside.”

Liam McNeeley (UConn)​

Class: Freshman, age 19
Measurements: 6’7, 215 lbs
Comparison: Keegan Murray, Corey Krispert, Sam Hauser
Projected draft spot: 28 (The Ringer), 20 (No Ceilings), 24 (Yahoo Sports)

Photo by Melissa Tamez/NBAE via Getty Images

Yahoo Sports: “McNeeley is a sharpshooting wing with superb instincts moving with the ball, and the touch to splash from deep ranges. Though he doesn’t project as a primary shot creator, his feel as a connective passer gives him the skill to fit into any type of offense.”

The Ringer: “Looks the part of a sizable floor-spacing forward but needs to improve physically to provide more.”

No Ceilings: “A versatile win with a smooth scoring game, McNeeley excels as a shooter while demonstrating the ability to get to the basket and generate free throws when he’s run off the line. His feel and size make him a highly intriguing prospect with star role player potential.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...ton-ryan-kalkbrenner-maxime-raynaud-kam-jones

 

[Boston Celtics]

What position should the Celtics target in the NBA Draft? (Celtics Reacts Survey)

Photo by Ryan Stetz/NBAE via Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Boston Celtics fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The Boston Celtics have a lot to do this offseason, and one of those things is to participate in the NBA Draft starting on June 25. At the moment they have the No. 28 overall and No. 32 overall picks. If they keep those picks, what position do you think they should target?

Obviously they’ll take a lot of factors into consideration for the proverbial “best player available.” Athletic upside, shooting touch, defensive chops, how “NBA ready” they are, etc.

A general rule of thumb is that you don’t draft for need. However, if all of the above grades out about equal, then positional need can be a deciding factor. So humor me with the survey questions and feel free to call me a draft dummy in the comments below.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...target-in-the-nba-draft-celtics-reacts-survey

 

[Boston Celtics]

Catch Pacers vs. Thunder Game 3 live on Playback

Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images

The Thunder look to regain control of the series as the heavy favourites

Thankfully, we have NBA Finals basketball to watch today. I can’t do another day of “reports” that the Celtics prefer to trade Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, and would like to keep Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. We know. For at least a day, we can enjoy some playoff basketball in the CelticsBlog Playback room.

Download the Playback app today and be part of the conversation as the action unfolds.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/11/24447659/catch-pacers-vs-thunder-game-3-live-on-playback

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jaylen Brown undergoes arthroscopic knee surgery, Celtics reveal recovery timeline

Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

The Celtics star played through a partially torn meniscus for the second half of the season. After undergoing knee surgery, he is expected to be ready for training camp.

Jaylen Brown underwent a successful right knee arthroscopic debridement procedure, the Celtics announced on Wednesday. He is expected to participate in training camp, which begins in October, without limitation.

Since mid-February, Brown dealt with what the Celtics officially listed as a right knee impingement. ESPN’s Ramona Shelbourne initially reported that Brown received pain injections ahead of the postseason and later, after the playoffs concluded, reported that he had a partially torn meniscus in his right knee. Brown missed 11 games with the injury during the 2024-25 season.

When Celtics general manager Brad Stevens spoke to reporters on May 19th, he expressed optimism about Brown’s prognosis.

“The knee is in a good place, structurally,” Stevens said. “So I think he felt comfortable getting out there and going after it, and, hopefully, he’ll feel better after being off of it for a couple of weeks here.”

But, on May 24th, Brown told CelticsBlog that surgery to repair that torn meniscus remained on the table.

“l got a lot of doctors I gotta get evaluated with — see the potential for surgery versus no surgery, wait to speak to the [Celtics] organization,” he said. “For now, it’s just rest and recovery. I’m taking a step back from a long season. Mentally, it was a lot of stuff going on.”

Official Jaylen Brown injury update, per the Celtics.

Brown told me a few weeks ago he was meeting with various doctors to weigh the pros and cons of surgery vs no surgery for his partially torn meniscus pic.twitter.com/rkeEmsr3oN

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) June 11, 2025​

An arthroscopic debridement is a surgical procedure performed using an arthroscope. In this procedure, the cartilage or the bone that is damaged is removed using surgical instruments, and the edges of the articular cartilage that are rough will be smoothed.

Brown averaged 22.1 points on 44.1% shooting alongside 7.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists across 11 postseason games. His rebounds and assists were both playoff career highs.

In addition to Brown’s knee injury, Jayson Tatum underwent surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon and is expected to miss most, if not all, of the Celtics’ 2025-26 season.

This story will be updated as more information is available.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...pic-knee-surgery-boston-celtics-injury-update

 

[Boston Celtics]

Sam Hauser is available, what is his market?

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Celtics have shown they are willing to deal Hauser in their efforts to get under the second apron.

The Celtics are willing to listen on offers for sharp-shooting swingman Sam Hauser.

“The primary focus for the Celtics has been Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis and Sam Hauser,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said on the Pat McAfee show

Holiday and Porzingis have been discussed may times over but Hauser’s market is something that has flown under the radar.

Last summer, Hauser signed a 4-year, $45 million extension through the 2028-29 season.

His salary for the 2025-26 season will be $10 million, worth 6.5% of the cap. The new CBA allows for teams to use their mid-level signing exceptions in trades now, something that used to only be for free agents. As a result, this opens up more ways for Boston to deal Hauser and not take any incoming money back in a deal.

A career, 42% three point shooter, Hauser has never had a season in which he shot under 41% from three and over the past three seasons, he has taken over 5 threes per game.

Everybody needs shooting and Hauser is on a good contract. If you compare it to the 5-year $90 million deal Duncan Robinson signed in the summer of 2021, he had shot 43% over the previous two seasons before signing his big deal and was going to be worth over double the percentage of the cap that Hauser is going to be at over the next 4 seasons.

Is taking on 4-years of Hauser’s contract something that some teams won’t want to do? Yes, but this is a good player that we have seen play well in the biggest moments of the playoffs, I think somebody will want to want trade for him.

Trading Sam Hauser saves $80m in tax penalties pic.twitter.com/MO4Ebc5Ifw

— NikNBA (@__Kingnik) June 4, 2025

It has been talked about a lot but it is important to keep hammering home. The Celtics have to get under the second apron. With the basketball penalties that come with being over the second apron, namely the fact that their 2032 pick is frozen and is pushed back to the end of the first round, they need to get under.

Currently, $20 million over the 2nd apron, trading Hauser and taking no additional salary back would get Boston, half way to getting under the apron. It would also save the Celtics $80 million against the luxury tax.

So if you are wondering why Boston is hoping to trade Hauser, that is why.

There are a lot of teams who can acquire Hauser, the Pelicans, Sixers, Clippers, Blazers, Warriors, Kings, Pacers, Bucks, Wizards, Jazz, Hornets, Spurs, Hawks, Grizzlies, Pistons, Bulls and Nets are all teams who will either have their non-tax payer mid-level or cap space.

The Hawks, Nets, Bulls, Kings, Mavericks, Pelicans and Heat all have a suitable trade exception to trade for Hauser’s salary as well.

Using Hauser in a trade up scenario makes sense. For example, Boston could trade Hauser and the 28th or the 32nd in the draft to the Hawks for the 22nd pick.

I think Atlanta is a team that could make the most sense to acquire Hauser. They aren’t tanking because they have Trae Young and owe their picks to the Spurs, the fall back in the draft would not be drastic at all and they have enough room under the luxury tax threshold that Hauser would not be the only piece they could get this summer.

Maybe the market is robust enough that the Celtics are able to get a whole first round pick in a Hauser trade but I am not don’t believe that it will be. Using Hauser to move up in this draft is smart business and a route that I think the Celtics will likely end up going.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...oston-celtics-trade-second-apron-brad-stevens

 

[Boston Celtics]

Do the NBA Finals seem “big?” (NBA Reacts)

Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images

Sometimes small is big

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Boston Celtics fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The National Results are out on the latest NBA Reacts surveys. This week they are focused on the NBA Finals, which makes sense because that’s what all this is about.

First of all, the NBA Finals are always “big” if you are an NBA fan. I get that this year is between two small market teams, but come on. They are really fun, innovative, teams that have taken the latest trends in the game and advanced them on the biggest stage. I think some people polled are just upset that their team isn’t part of the Finals (which, if I’m honest, I get).

Put me in the camp that just doesn’t care that much about this topic. Style is a preference thing to me, so for the most part I’m not going to try to tell others if their preference is right or wrong. I enjoyed seeing the trophy on the court in 2008 but I didn’t really miss it in 2024. So whatever.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/12/24448353/do-the-nba-finals-seem-big-nba-reacts-thunder-pacers

 

[Boston Celtics]

Phil Pressey to be named Maine Celtics Head Coach

Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

The former Missouri guard gets his first head coaching opportunity

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Maine Celtics are expected to name Phil Pressey as the franchise’s next head coach.

Pressey will become the 11th head coach in team history, taking over for Tyler Lashbrook, who was named head coach in 2024.

Pressey, a former Missouri standout, went undrafted in 2013 but played on Boston’s summer league team earning himself a contract with the Celtics and after a strong showing in the NBA Summer League. He played two seasons in Boston before bouncing around the league with the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and briefly the Golden State Warriors. He later played overseas in Spain with Movistar Estudiantes and FC Barcelona and in Turkey with Besiktas.

He also has ties to Maine. Early in his career, Pressey spent time with Maine as he developed through the Celtics organization.

Most recently, Pressey served as a player development coach for the Boston Celtics. He joined head coach Joe Mazzulla’s staff in the summer of 2023 and was part of a developmental pipeline that has proven crucial to Boston’s long-term success.

Boston’s G League affiliate has become a valuable asset in developing young talent. Players like JD Davison, Neemias Queta, Sam Hauser, and Baylor Scheierman have all spent time in Maine early in their careers. With the Celtics competing for championships in recent years, Maine has served as a proving ground for players not yet ready for rotation minutes at the NBA level.

Pressey’s experience in both playing and developing talent gives him a strong foundation heading into his first head coaching role. He’ll be tasked not only with leading Maine on the court, but continuing to help groom the next wave of players for Mazzulla’s Celtics.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/13/24448755/phil-pressey-to-be-named-maine-celtics-head-coach

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jayson Tatum steps up to support St. Louis after tragedy hits hometown

Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Tatum’s foundation is hosting another tornado response drive in St. Louis on Saturday.

In mid-May, just a few days after Jayson Tatum ruptured his Achilles, a tornado swept through his hometown of St. Louis. The tornado damaged about 5,000 buildings, injuring 38 people and killing five.

A few weeks later, Tatum’s foundation — the Jayson Tatum Foundation — hosted a food drive to assist affected families. The June 1st drive collected more than 52,000 lbs. of food and supplies that were dispersed to those in need.

Jayson Tatum Foundation
Jayson Tatum’s foundation hosted a tornado response drive in St. Louis on Saturday.

On June 14th, Tatum’s foundation is hosting a second drive to collect food items, personal care products, and household cleaning supplies.

We're hosting a donation event! Join The Jayson Tatum Foundation, @WeAreChaminade, @stlfoodbank, @KMOV, & @ktrs550 for a drive-thru donation event to help STL tornado victims.
Sat, June 14, 9am–2pm
Chaminade Prep-425 S Lindbergh
Donate food and supplies pic.twitter.com/HoJYcPYRMK

— The Jayson Tatum Foundation (@supportjtf) June 13, 2025​

Both drives have taken place at Chaminade College Preparatory School, where Tatum attended high school.

The Jayson Tatum Foundation works to uplift the St. Louis area year-round​

The tornado response donation drive is one of many events Tatum’s foundation has hosted to impact the St. Louis community. The foundation, whose mission is to “positively impact and inspire children, teens and their families through education, athletics and support, and to encourage them to strive to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.” The organization is mostly focused on the St. Louis area, and hosts an annual new backpack and school supply drive, a Thanksgiving meal giveaway, and a toy and coat drive.

In addition, the foundation provides select graduating high school seniors with a $10,000 scholarship to help with expenses, and provide grants to low-to-moderate-income first-time homebuyers.

The Celtics star, in the meantime, is rehabbing in Boston.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/14/24448879/jayson-tatum-foundation-st-louis-tornado

 

[Boston Celtics]

Deal or No Deal: Derrick White

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Should the Boston Celtics keep Derrick White?

Welcome back to the Deal or No Deal series where we break down if the Celtics should bring back a certain player for the 2025-26 NBA season. If a player is under “Deal” then the player should not be brought back. If “No Deal” then the player should be brought back.

The next player in this series is Derrick White. White had a career season this year averaging a career high 16.4 PPG, alongside 4.8 AST, 4.5 REB, on 44% shooting from the field, 38% shooting from three, and 84% from the free throw line.

White’s career year was highlighted by breaking the Celtics single season record for made threes but he was not recognized with any awards as he was snubbed for an all defensive team. With Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis missing extended periods of time with injury, White stepped up to be one of Boston’s most consistent and important players.

This might be the most obvious No Deal of all time but you never know what could happen in the offseason. With all of the rumors swirling around the Celtics roster, Shams Charania reported that Boston would prefer not to trade Derrick White this offseason.

However, this hasn’t stopped teams from calling about him and with Desmond Bane just getting traded to the Orlando Magic for 5 first round picks, Brad Stevens might listen to some of these offers more intently.

The Celtics’ offseason focus is trading Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Sam Hauser, per @ShamsCharania on @PatMcAfeeShow

He said “they’re going to get offers on the three guys they’re focused on” and they “prefer not to trade” Jaylen Brown or Derrick White. pic.twitter.com/35U2oDNTpk

— SleeperCeltics (@SleeperCeltics) June 11, 2025​

Building a Derrick White trade package is interesting because every team in the NBA would love to have a player like him but not every team has the salaries to match his $28 million contract.

The first team that comes to mind for a potential trade is the Minnesota Timberwolves. My idea for a trade involves Minnesota sending Jaden McDaniels, Terrance Shannon Jr, MIN 2025 First Round Pick (17th Overall), and MIN 2026 First Round Pick Swap.

The Timberwolves have said that Jaden McDaniels is an untouchable when it comes to a Kevin Durant trade but would they be willing to part ways with him for Derrick White? Probably not, but he is the only salary on the Timberwolves that would make this trade work. Shannon Jr is a good young player that Boston could like and two first round picks might be a lot but the Celtics could be asking for this kind of haul when it comes to a player of White’s caliber.

The next team I thought about when it came to a Derrick White trade is the Detroit Pistons. In this scenario Detroit would give up Isaiah Stewart, Jaden Ivey, DET 2026 First Round Pick and DET 2028 First Round Pick.

Ivey is a young guard coming off of injury but he has shown flashes of looking like a future star. Stewart is tough, big body center that will become an instant fan favorite in Boston and fill the big man position that the Celtics need. Boston would also save about $3 Million in salary with this trade and that could be something the Celtics are interested in.

The next trade proposal I have is with the Dallas Mavericks who are in the market for another guard. Dallas would give up Daniel Gafford, Caleb Martin, Oliver-Maxence Prosper, DAL 2026 First Round Pick, and LAL 2029 First Round Pick.

Gafford and Martin are great depth pieces in positions of need for the Celtics and Prosper is a nice young player that showed flashes of potential last year. The draft picks are once again the main prize in this deal as the Lakers 2029 Pick could be the best asset out of anything they acquire.

The final trade proposal I have is a deal with the Golden State Warriors. Golden State gives up Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, GSW 2028 First Round Pick, GSW 2029 First Round Pick Swap, and GSW 2030 First Round Pick.

Moody and Hield are depth pieces that are useful for the Celtics but it’s the three first round picks that are the main draw of this deal. Boston also saves $7.3 Million in this deal and with the Celtics cutting salary, this would be the most attractive deal.

Final Verdict: No Deal

Although White could fetch the biggest haul out of everyone on the team, I don’t see a world where the Celtics move him. Derrick White is maybe the most important player on this team outside of the Jays and I don’t think there is a deal out there right now that a team can make to get Brad Stevens to move him.

However, the NBA Offseason is a wild time and any team could be desperate enough to give up a kings ransom for White. The city of Boston would be outraged at even the thought of a trade happening so I think Brad Stevens will hold on to him and there could be a chance White puts up an all-star season in return.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...ite-boston-celtics-nba-offseason-brad-stevens

 

[Boston Celtics]

Noah Penda: the perfect fit for the Celtics?

Photo by Laurent Coust/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Noah Penda doesn’t need the ball to impact games. He cuts, connects, rebounds, rotates and defends with rare precision. For a Celtics team that values two-way versatility, the fit is easy to see.

With the draft coming up soon and the french basketball season coming to an end, the timing is perfect to study Noah Penda’s potential as a new Celtic. Le Mans Sarthe Basket winger was voted Betclic Élite’s best young player of the season on Wednesday. He follows in the footsteps of Zaccharie Risacher and Victor Wembanyama, the first picks of the last two drafts.

He is projected to go in the second part of the first round and could be a great pick for the Boston Celtics if they want to add defensive playmaking and connecting tissue on offense. As the Celtics end the season with the 24th-ranked opponent turnover rate and the 3rd-lowest transition volume, Noah Penda could bring another alternative to Mazzulla-ball.

Ready to win​

His coach, Guillaume Vizade, who has worked with him in various contexts (in his previous club and for the French national under-20 team), believes a winning environment like the Celtics is well suited to his personality:

“As he’s a competitor and very committed to the team project, I think an already successful team looking for a player who can improve on what already exists would be a good fit. He’s able to adapt constantly thanks to his basketball IQ, and will always find a way to help the team and boost the productivity of its line-ups.”

As Jrue Holiday might be traded, and Al Horford not getting any younger, the Celtics will need to find elite defenders to replenish the roster. What if the young man was the defensive prospect they could place a bet on? At 6’8” with a 7-foot wingspan, Penda might be one of the best defensive players in this draft, as he is already the top defensive playmaker in the French league. His current coach believes his body is ready for the big league:

“Physically, he has many of the attributes of a modern NBA winger. His measurements, his power and his ability to move to the right place at the right time (counter-timing, lateral speed to hold off duels). His physical assets could make him a Swiss army knife defensively in the NBA and a connector offensively. The final element that I find reassuring is that he has not stopped progressing so far. I think this progression will continue in the ultra-competitive environment of the NBA.”

Now that you know what his coach thinks about him, let’s look at what the statistics and film have to say.

One of a kind​

With a large enough statistical sample now available to compare player performances, it’s easier to spot the outliers — those who clearly stand out from the pack. Noah Penda is one of them.

During the 2024–2025 season with Le Mans in Betclic Élite, he delivered a defensive performance that no one else has matched. His raw stats aren’t always eye-catching because of his versatility and the fact that he plays 26 minutes per game. But once you adjust for playing time and compare him to the rest of the league, he becomes truly unique.

If you focus on the key defensive stats — blocks, steals, rebounds, and fouls — his overall impact is the best in the league.

Normalizing the numbers to 40 minutes for all Pro A players smooths out the influence of playing time. Per 40 minutes, Noah Penda averages 1.5 blocks, 1.7 steals, 8.1 rebounds, and just 2.9 fouls.

So who else in Betclic Élite combines this level of production and defensive efficiency? No one. Nobody brings this kind of impact on that side of the ball. The only two players who come close to his efficiency are Andre Roberson (the former OKC Thunder player) and Kevarrius Hayes, but both foul a lot more.

His defensive presence also makes him one of the league’s best at triggering transition opportunities — helping Le Mans pressure opposing offenses and defenses alike. Another marker of his impact? He’s among the players defending the most isolations per game. That kind of volume shows he’s frequently matched up with the opponent’s top scorer.

Even better, when opposing scorers finish a play in isolation against Noah Penda, they only convert 27% of their attempts. How is that possible? Because he can guard various profiles — from very quick point guards to post-up big men.

Opposing scorers have an astounding 27.3% FG (!) when guarded by Noah Penda in isolation.

The multi-positional defending, lateral quickness, physicality & overbearing length — these are the makings of an All-NBA defender & Penda fits that bill. pic.twitter.com/mYBtK5GmWf

— Mohamed (@mcfNBA) April 21, 2025​

Here’s one example: Penda is guarding one of the best point guards in the league. On paper, a player with Noah’s size shouldn’t be able to keep up with that kind of speed. But he’s built differently. His mobility, size, and density make him an elite defender in multiple roles.

In the play above, he defends a quick ball-handler in transition — a rare skill for a player at his position. But that’s not the limit of his versatility. In the next action, he starts in the weak-side corner and, after a pick-and-roll, rotates perfectly to take away an easy layup at the rim.

He quickly recognizes the next threat coming from behind and uses his unique physical tools to block the shot with one hand.

You’ll even find sequences like the one below where he does both in the same possession. First, his help at the rim forces the offense to swing the ball to the corner. He rotates, switches to the ball-handler, stays in front, and when it seems like he’s about to get blown by, his wingspan and hand-eye coordination allow him to block the shot.

Noah Penda’s defensive influence is as versatile as it is disruptive — and a huge part of why his team can run in transition. In today’s game, where pick-and-rolls dominate, Penda is built to blow them up. He’s mobile and strong enough to guard either the ball-handler or the screener. And once the scoring threat is neutralized, his length makes passes far tougher to execute.

Even when he’s off the ball, his presence alone complicates passing lanes in tight spaces. He reads the game well and can afford to gamble or float between two players because he won’t get beat easily. On top of that, he’s confident enough with the ball in his hands to push the break and make smart decisions in transition.

In a league where spacing is everything, a profile like Noah Penda’s might be the key to building a great defense. Take this play, for example: he’s defending a player just one pass away from the ball, but he still manages to slide over, disrupt the drive, and shut it down thanks to his exceptional timing and physical tools.

The other upside to his game comes right after his defensive ability. He is able to get stops, indeed, but he can also grab the rebound and carry the ball in transition. As mentioned earlier, he grabs more rebounds per 40 minutes than 80% of the Betclic Élite players. That’s already really impressive. But the real value comes from his ability to dribble and pass to launch the transition.

The numbers say it clearly — Noah Penda is a one-of-a-kind defender in France, maybe even in Europe. Across all European leagues, very few players post this kind of defensive output with so few fouls. His mix of sharp instincts, elite coordination, length, and mobility could make him one of the most versatile defenders in the world. But what about his offense?

Can he be a connector in the nba?​

The offense is the biggest question mark. What could be a great upside is his connecting, his passing, and his capacity to read the game. His great basketball IQ — which is highlighted by his defense — also impacts the other side of the court. He can pass on the move, which could be great as a roll-man or in a secondary ball-handler role. Like Luke Kornet, he can also be a stationary offensive hub thanks to his ability to read plays and find the open man. Overall, he is a willing and good passer. As he ranks in the 59th percentile in assists per 40 minutes among wings, it shows how much of a team player he is.

While the passing seems to be his biggest upside on offense, he’s also great at cutting, ranking in the 70th percentile for “cuts made per 40 minutes.” This is not a surprise, as we often see how smart players excel at cutting, passing, and reading the game. Penda is one of them.

Offensively, he can also drive and play with his back to the basket, ranking in the 70th percentile in post-up attempts per 40 minutes in the French league. As the Celtics like to attack mismatches, he could also bring some slight offensive creation from the post-up against weaker defenders.

So why wouldn’t it work? Mainly because of the shooting. He’s improved a lot, and insights from Le Mans coaching staff suggest that he is very serious and cautious about his shooting training. And the numbers back up this impression. His free throw percentage went from 55% in 2021 to 72% this season. Same with his 3-point efficiency, improving from 24% to 34% over four years. But will it be enough to play in the NBA? One thing is certain: his work ethic is strong. When we asked Coach Vizade about it, here’s what he had to say:

“Noah is a player who is very consistent in his work and commitment, and this translates into regularity in his productions. As well as being consistent every year, he’s making progress in the way he trains. His intentions progress along with his determination and over the three years I’ve always had a player with a thirst for learning and evolving on a daily basis. He also connects well with his partners and makes sure he’s always supporting them on both sides of the court.”

If he can reach league-average efficiency on shooting in his first seasons, Penda will be able to stay on the court and become one of the most impactful two-way role players. His ability to play a wide variety of roles on both offense and defense fits perfectly in the modern game. At just 20 years old, he has already proven he can be part of a winning environment — and his teams are often at their best when he’s on the court (66th percentile in plus/minus this season).

Noah Penda will have an instant impact on the team that drafts him. Defensively, he’ll be easy to plug into various coverages. Offensively, he can pass, cut, screen, and move without the ball — or create chaos in transition. What more can you ask for from a rookie in a winning team looking to retool for the future? With most of the other Celtics already elite shooters, he could bring something different. Penda could offer what Holiday gave the Celtics on the defensive end and find a role off the ball on offense.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...the-basket-france-basketball-guillaume-vizade

 

[Boston Celtics]

Catch Pacers vs. Thunder Game 5 live on Playback

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander saved the Thunder’s season with more 4th quarter heroics. The Oklahoma City Thunder will need more from their role players at home to regain control of the series.

Boston Celtics fans can empathise with Indiana Pacers fans as they prepare for Game 5 of the NBA Finals. The feeling of letting a 3-1 lead in the finals slip through your fingers is up there with some of the worst pain a sports fan can experience. Alas, counting out the Indiana Pacers has not been a wise move in the 2025 playoffs. Catch the Game 5 action live in the CelticsBlog Playback room.

Download the Playback app today and be part of the conversation as the action unfolds.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/16/24450031/catch-pacers-vs-thunder-game-5-live-on-playback

 

[Boston Celtics]

Does a Jrue Holiday for DeMar DeRozan deal make sense for the Celtics?

David Butler II-Imagn Images

The Sacramento Kings reportedly have interest in Jrue Holiday, should the Celtics have interest in DeMar DeRozan?

There are reports around the Sacramento Kings have expressed interest in acquiring Celtics guard Jrue Holiday.

James Ham, who covers the Kings for TheKingsBeat.com, said that Sacramento does have interest in the now 35-year-old guard.

Brad is cooking up

“The Kings have been checking in on Jrue Holiday, but the Celtics have better offers”pic.twitter.com/jtLNbvYGzb

— CELTICS BANNER 19 (@BiggLynch) June 13, 2025

“The Kings checked in on (Holiday) and wanted to see what the price is worth and everything like that. From my understanding Boston has better offers than what the Kings are offering.”

Let’s live in a world where the Celtics and Kings do agree on a Jrue Holiday trade and the return is DeMar DeRozan. If the Celtics really do have better offers than that, maybe the Kings throw in the 2027 Spurs first round pick or a few 2nd rounders.

A Holiday for DeRozan one for one swap works if it is completed by July 1st. If not, the Kings would need to add another player because the deal would be $150,000 from working for the 2025-26 season. As a result, if there is going to be a deal, it should take place soon.

This deal would get the Celtics to $13.3 million over the 2nd apron, which they need to get under, as I discussed in my Sam Hauser story from last week.

DeRozan’s fit in Boston is something that would be fun to see how it plays out.

DeRozan is a 6-time All-Star and a 3-time All-NBA player. He can flat out score the ball, as he has scored at least 20 points per game in every season since the 2013-14 campaign.

Boston is going to need someone to help fill the scoring void that is being left by Jayson Tatum next season. However, DeRozan just does not fit the Mazzulla Ball system.

Of all of DeRozan’s shots a season ago, 80.4% of them came from inside the 2-point arc. DeRozan took 8.3 mid range shots per game in his first season as a King. That is 5.4 more than Jayson Tatum, who lead the Celtics with 2.9 mid range shots per game during the 2024-25 season.

There is no way that DeRozan would get his mid-range shots to under 3 per game. During the 2020-21 season, his last as a Spur, DeRozan took 5.9 mid-range shots per game. That was the last season he did not lead the NBA in mid-range shot attempts per game.

DeRozan’s defense isn’t great but that is to be expected from a guy who will be 36 on opening night. He has a tendency to get beat on drives to the cup but isn’t a terrible defensive player who costs the team on that end consistently.

DeRozan is not a bad passer either. His 4.4 assists per game and 18.7% assist rate were down from his time with the Bulls, where he averaged 5.1 assists per game and had an assist rate of 22.4%. Assist rate is the estimated percentage of baskets the player assisted on when they were on the court.

DeRozan is also one of the clutchest players in the NBA. He didn't have a great clutch season this past year, shooting 44% from the field and 20% from three in clutch games. Which are defined by the NBA as games with 5 points with under 5 minutes to go in the game. However, for he finished 3rd in Clutch Player of the Year voting during the 2022-23 season and 2nd for the 2023-24 season when he was with the Bulls.

He has an elite clutch gene.

How would DeRozan fit in Boston?

Jayson Tatum is going to miss a significant portion of next season with his achilles tear (I hate being reminded of this fact), if not all of it. Boston is going to need guys to score the ball next season. Anticipating that he is back, Jaylen Brown will be one of those guys and an increased role from Payton Pritchard will also help. However, DeRozan is a bucket, who is elite at getting to his spots and hitting jump shots. That is something that the Celtics will need next season.

DeRozan’s contract is also something that Boston should have interest in. Just $10 million of the $25 million DeRozan is scheduled to make during the 2026-27 season is guaranteed. If the Celtics want to move off of DeRozan after the season, they can waive and stretch him at just over $3 million for 3 seasons. If he makes the All-Star team next season that would increase to $12 million but if he is an All-Star the Celtics likely wouldn't waive him.

So, does it make sense for the Celtics to trade Holiday for DeRozan?

I don't think it would be a bad trade for the Celtics but should the Celtics prioritize DeRozan in a Holiday trade? No, they should not. DeRozan is a great player, who would be fun to watch play for the Celtics. However, he is going to be 36 in August and would not be a long term piece for the Celtics.

If Boston can get something they can keep long term in a Holiday trade they should do that instead of trading for DeRozan because next season is likely to be a wash anyways.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...nse-the-boston-celtics-sacramento-kings-trade

 

[Boston Celtics]

Catch Game 6 Pacers vs. Thunder live on Playback.

Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images

The Thunder have a chance to secure their first championship in franchise history.

Many expected the NBA Finals to be a snooze fest. The 68-win juggernaut from Oklahoma was going to tear through the Cinderella story out of Indiana. Instead, basketball fans have been treated to an awesome series. And now, the Thunder have the chance to win their first title in franchise history. Catch the game live in the CelticsBlog Playback room.

Download the Playback app today and be part of the conversation as the action unfolds.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/19/24452042/catch-game-6-pacers-vs-thunder-live-on-playback

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jaylen Brown is extra immersed in the Boston community — but it’s nothing new

Richie Lemay, CLNS Media

On Juneteenth, Brown gave away hundreds of pairs of sneakers to students at a Dorchester Boys and Girls Club, making his first public appearance since undergoing knee surgery last week.

Just over a week after the Celtics were eliminated from the NBA playoffs, Jaylen Brown said he hoped to spend most of his offseason in Boston.

“I’m leaning toward being even more in the community,” Brown told CelticsBlog. “I’m just really trying to touch this community and be around, be available for the city of Boston.”

One month later, Brown has already fulfilled that promise: he’s hosted two 741 Performance pop-ups, and surprised students at five different schools in Dorchester and Roxbury.

“People couldn’t stop talking about it, I can’t even lie,” Jaylon Mason, a graduating senior at Brooke High School, told CelticsBlog after Brown visited his school late last month. “It’s the equivalent of, like, sitting on your bed and eating cereal, watching TV, and like, Obama comes in.”

It appeared that Brown’s community visits could come to a standstill when the Celtics announced that Brown underwent surgery to repair a partially torn meniscus last week.

But that procedure only kept him away from the Boston community for a week, and on Thursday, Brown meandered into the Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club in Dorchester, leaning on one crutch to support himself as he walked.

Jaylen Brown led a Juneteenth celebration in Dorchester ​

In the inundated gymnasium, Brown addressed several hundred youth who shrieked as he walked through the door.

First, he called up kids to share what they knew about Juneteenth, a Holiday commemorating the end of slavery.

Then, he shared a simple directive: to treat each as other as nicely as possible.

“Small acts of kindness, nice things — you never know how that can affect people,” Brown told the students. “That goes for whether you are a player for the Celtics, or if you’re on the basketball team here at the Boys and Girls Club. Can y’all do that? Can y’all be nice to each other?”

Jaylen Brown addresses the students here at the Boys and Girls Club for Juneteenth, with a clear message: be kind to one another, always.

“Small acts of kindness — you never know how that can affect people.” pic.twitter.com/06Eq2N66Vn

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) June 19, 2025​

For hours after his opening remarks, the Celtics star took photos and chatted with students of all ages from the Dorchester area — from toddlers to teenagers — ultimately gifting 125 pairs of 741 Performance sneakers to kids in attendance.

He taught kids how to improve their shooting form, urged them to prioritize their schoolwork, and shared laughs with leaders from the Boston community.

Jaylen Brown teaching one kid to square up and shoot before signing the basketball pic.twitter.com/0SdAI4NpMC

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) June 19, 2025​

Jaylen Brown began his off-court involvement years ago ​

Andrea Swain, the Boys and Girls Club’s chief impact officer, noted that Brown’s involvement in the community is nothing new.

“He’s been doing it since he arrived in Boston,” she told CelticsBlog on Wednesday. “He’s everywhere. He’s been at some of the playgrounds in Roxbury — he’s an active, engaged figure, and a lot of stuff he does is off camera. He’ll come and give out turkeys in the community, give encouragement.”

Swain pointed to one behind-the-scenes moment that stuck with her forever.

Years ago, during the COVID pandemic, she served as the executive director at the Yawkey Boys and Girls Club in Roxbury and stumbled upon an issue: dealing with remote learning, masking, and social distancing, the students had lost interest in their academics.

Motivation was at a low, and an infusion of inspiration was needed.

“The kids weren’t doing their work,” Swain recalled.

A mutual connection told Jaylen Brown about the situation, and he immediately opted to visit the club, urging the students to prioritize their academics, even when they didn’t feel like it.

The result of the motivational speech?

All 100 kids at the club made the honor roll.

“He just came and he did it — and turned the lives around for those 100 kids,” Swain said. “Every single one of them were on the honor roll. Every single one.”

Nearly five years later, Brown’s love for the community has only deepened. Reeling from an early playoff exit and his first offseason surgery, Brown told CelticsBlog the process of going out and connecting with Boston residents is therapeutic.

“I think it’s a part of the healing process,” he said. “Stuff like this makes me feel a little bit better.”

Asked Jaylen Brown about his favorite part of these community events:

“To be honest, I feel like this stuff kind of helps heal the soul — being able to touch the community, being a member of your community.” https://t.co/lDLRzLdjle pic.twitter.com/CJeUrWrCYY

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) June 19, 2025​

KJ Grubbs, who is the executive director of the Dorchester club, said that these types of visits build a long-lasting sense of community.

“For the kids, this is something that they’re gonna remember for years and associate it with their experience with where they grew up,” Grubbs told CelticsBlog. “It just increases the love that our young people have for where they’re from when we have things like this — it shows them that where they are is just as important. They don’t have to go anywhere to be celebrated. They can be right here.”

Brown has long lamented some of the issues Boston faces, such as the city’s racial wealth gap. Last summer, in collaboration with Jrue and Lauren Holiday, he launched Boston XChange, an incubator that aims to generate $5 billion in new wealth for historically marginalized communities through strategic investments and partnerships.

“Too many people complain about their community and aren’t doing anything about it, in my opinion,” Brown said Thursday. “They’re not doing anything to help, not doing anything to contribute, so I never view myself as one of those people. I try to be in the community and around as much as I can be.”

A few hot hours — and hundreds of photos and signatures later — Brown walked out of the Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club feeling just a little bit better.

The moments he shared with the youth of Boston meant as much to him as they did to the kids, he said.

“I just appreciate it all, you know what I mean?” Brown said. “Just the authenticity, how much the kids probably appreciate me, I appreciate them. It’s mutual, to be honest. I feel like this stuff kinda helps heal the soul.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...41-performance-dorchester-boys-and-girls-club

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics veteran shares update on Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury recovery

Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images

Torrey Craig shared that Tatum has regularly been in the practice facility and is in ‘good spirits.’

It’s been almost six weeks since Jayson Tatum ruptured his Achilles tendon, and to those around him, his spirits seem high.

That’s what Celtics free agent Torrey Craig — who has spent lots of time at the Auerbach Center in recent weeks — said in an appearance on CLNS Media’s Garden Report.

“He’s getting his routine down,” Craig said. “He’s always in with his trainer doing his rehab. I think it’ll get easier as time goes on, but it’s always tough seeing somebody like that go down, especially a person like JT.”

Tatum posted a photo of himself at the facility earlier this month, and Craig shared a video of the Celtics star laughing and getting treatment last week.

Craig has routinely worked out at the Auerbach Center alongside his son, Braylon, and some of the younger players on the roster — Baylor Scheierman, Miles Norris, Drew Peterson — as well as more veteran players like Payton Pritchard and Al Horford.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown — both recovering from offseason surgery — have regularly been in the building getting treatment. Craig said it’s been great to see Tatum active on social media and getting back to himself.

“[It’s good] to see him smiling and laughing and joking around and just having a normal conversation, talking about the offseason and what I’m up to,” Craig said. “I just look forward to his recovery, the progress he’s making, and it’s always just good seeing him in good spirits.”

Jayson Tatum rehabbing at the Celtics practice facility.
-
Via @tcraig/IG
CLNS ️ by PrizePicks pic.twitter.com/QLj9IDGYL8

— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) June 9, 2025​

”He loves the game so much and basketball means so much to him. He puts so much hard work into it, and dedication and sacrifice, and all of the above. For something like this to happen at that moment, in the playoffs, it’s just gut-blowing.”

So, as a frequent Auerbach Center offseason visitor, he’s making a concerted effort to keep Tatum’s spirits high.

“I always try to lighten the mood up around him, not be too serious, make jokes to see him laugh, see him smile,” Craig said.

Torrey Craig gushed about having Tatum as a teammate ​

Craig, a 34-year-old veteran, has played for six NBA teams and shared the floor with a slew of All-Stars, including former MVPs like Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic.

What struck Craig most about playing with Tatum this past season was his humility — whether he went off for 50 points or had a quiet night, Tatum was always exactly the same.

“He’s probably the most — out of all the teammates I’ve had — he’s probably the most humble of them all,” Craig said. “I think he’s too humble, actually. To be as great as he is, and to be as humble as he is, and just a kind person, I think people kind of take that for granted sometimes.”

Tatum has a long road ahead in his recovery; medical experts expect him to miss anywhere from 7 to 15 months as he returns from one of the most serious injuries a basketball player can face.

In the meantime, those around him are grateful to have had the opportunity to share the court with him.

“He’s a great teammate,” Craig said. “I think that starts with him just being a great person, a great human overall.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/20/24447495/jayson-tatum-achilles-tendon-surgery-torrey-craig

 

[Boston Celtics]

Celtics free agents rave about Boston experience: “Anyone would love to be here”

Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images

Drew Peterson and Torrey Craig, both free agents who were mostly out of the Celtics’ rotation last season, spoke highly of their experience in Boston.

The Celtics are amid an offseason of uncertainty; with injured franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum expected to miss most, if not all, of next season, ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported that the team is expected to “retool” this summer.

Nearly everyone on the roster — from Derrick White to Kristaps Porzingis to Jaylen Brown — has seen their name in trade rumors.

In addition, the Celtics have several free agents this offseason; Luke Kornet, Al Horford, and Torrey Craig are all unrestricted, two-way player Drew Peterson is restricted, and JD Davison has a team option.

Craig and Peterson, both appearing on CLNS Media’s Garden Report this week, said that they’d love to be back in Boston if the opportunity were there.

“Boston, in general, is just an amazing experience,” Craig said. “I think it starts with the people and the fans here. From my first day here, I felt welcome with open arms, just going to different events, autograph signings, and seeing the love and the amount of support that these fans bring to the Celtics. It’s literally diehard Boston, ‘bleed green’ fans, so just to experience that was amazing.”

Craig, who signed with the Celtics in February after being waived by the Chicago Bulls, said he wasn’t surprised by his positive experience in Boston.

“Anyone from afar, looking from the outside in, knows what kind of organization this is and what it stands for and what it means, and you can see that far away,” Craig said.

Craig appeared in 17 games with the Celtics, averaging 2.7 points in 11.8 minutes per game. He shared that he regrets he was not more assertive in those minutes.

“I still don’t feel like I really got that chance to make my presence felt the way I wanted it to,” he said.

Drew Peterson has similarly loved the last year and a half with the Celtics​

Peterson, who has been on a two-way contract with the Celtics for the past two season, doesn’t yet know what his offseason holds, and whether he will play in NBA Summer League next month in Las Vegas.

Peterson shuttled back and forth between Maine and Boston this past season, appearing in 25 games with the parent club and 15 games with Maine. He averaged 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 6 assists in the G-League, and played 7.4 minutes per game when called up to Boston.

“I love it here,” Peterson said. “It’s been a great couple of years, and I hope to be here for a long time.”

This is such a dope experience for two-way players Drew Peterson and JD Davison

Went from most of the year in Maine to this pic.twitter.com/yPJ28nyw2P

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) June 21, 2024​

For now, both Peterson and Craig are at the Auerbach Center working out and staying active. The Celtics must give Peterson a qualifying offer by June 29th or he’ll become an unrestricted free agent.

Peterson hopes it’ll all work out, but he understands that there are larger factors at play.

“The organization — top to bottom — is incredible,” he said. “So, it’s been great, I’m happy to be back here, working out with the guys and stuff like that. I do love it here.”

Craig said he’ll meet with his agent this summer and figure out the best course of action for his career. Free agency officially begins on July 6th.

But if the opportunity is there with the Celtics, it will be difficult to deny.

“It’s hard to say you wouldn’t stay in Boston with the city and the fans and the team, and the history of everything that comes with Boston,” Craig said. “I think anyone would love to be here in Boston.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/6/...s-torrey-craig-drew-peterson-offseason-boston