The Boston Celtics, fresh off their championship triumph in the 2024-25 NBA season, have embarked on a whirlwind offseason, reshaping their roster in ways that have left fans buzzing with excitement and curiosity. With major trades, strategic signings, and a surprising waiver, the team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a lineup that barely resembles the one that hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy just a year ago. But what’s driving these changes, and what do they mean for the Celtics’ future? Let’s dive into the moves that are setting the stage for a new chapter in Boston’s storied franchise.
A Roster in Transition
The Celtics’ offseason has been nothing short of transformative. Gone are key contributors Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, traded away in blockbuster deals that shocked the NBA world. These moves weren’t just about shaking things up—they were strategic decisions to address the team’s evolving needs, particularly in light of Jayson Tatum’s expected absence for most of the 2025-26 season due to injury. Without their star forward, the Celtics are focusing on financial flexibility, cutting luxury tax penalties, and building a roster with cost-efficient players who can keep the team competitive.
In addition to the high-profile trades, General Manager Brad Stevens has been busy making smaller transactions to fine-tune the roster. One of the most recent moves came on Sunday, when the Celtics waived forward Miles Norris, freeing up one of their three two-way contract slots. Norris, who played just three games for Boston in the 2024-25 season, averaged 2.3 points and 3.0 rebounds. His performance in last month’s NBA Summer League was more promising, with 9.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game over four contests. However, his limited role with the main roster made him expendable as Stevens looks to the future.
The Waiver of Miles Norris: A Strategic Move
The decision to waive Norris wasn’t just about clearing space—it’s a calculated step to set up future roster moves. Two-way contracts are valuable in the NBA, allowing teams to shuttle players between the NBA and G League while developing young talent. By letting Norris go, Stevens has opened the door for new blood to step in. According to Noa Dalzell of CelticsBlog.com, the third two-way contract is likely to go to newly drafted player Amari Williams, with rookies Max Shulga and recently acquired RJ Luis Jr. occupying the other two slots. This move signals Boston’s commitment to investing in young, high-potential players who can grow with the team.
Stevens’ Master Plan
Brad Stevens has been pulling the strings with precision this offseason. Beyond the Norris waiver, he orchestrated a trade that sent Georges Niang to another team in exchange for RJ Luis Jr., a promising young talent who could bring fresh energy to the roster. Stevens also signed free agent Chris Boucher, adding depth and versatility to the frontcourt. These moves reflect Stevens’ philosophy of balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term development, especially in a season where the absence of Tatum forces the team to rely on depth and adaptability.
The Celtics’ front office is clearly playing the long game. By trimming payroll and prioritizing cost-efficient players, they’re positioning themselves to remain contenders even without their star player. The focus on two-way contracts and young talent suggests a belief in building a sustainable roster that can compete now and in the future, whether Tatum returns to full strength or not.
What’s Next for the Celtics?
With roster decisions still pending, the Celtics are far from done. The open two-way contract slot is a golden opportunity to test new talent, and Amari Williams could be the next piece of the puzzle. Williams, a rookie with raw potential, could benefit from G League seasoning while contributing to the main roster when needed. Meanwhile, RJ Luis Jr. and Max Shulga bring athleticism and upside, giving Boston a youthful core to build around.
The loss of Holiday and Porzingis stings, but Stevens’ proactive approach shows confidence in the team’s ability to adapt. The Celtics are banking on their depth, coaching, and system to keep them in the playoff hunt, even in a loaded Eastern Conference. Fans are left wondering: Can this revamped roster replicate last season’s magic, or will the absence of key stars prove too much to overcome?
The Boston Celtics are at a crossroads, and their offseason moves reflect a bold vision for the future. By trading away veterans, signing cost-efficient players, and making strategic roster tweaks like the waiver of Miles Norris, Brad Stevens is proving why he’s one of the NBA’s sharpest minds. The 2025-26 season will test the Celtics’ resilience, but it’s also an opportunity for new faces to shine and for the franchise to redefine itself. As the season approaches, one thing is clear: the Green are ready to run, and they’re doing it their way.