Celtics Trade Kristaps Porziņģis to Hawks in Major Three-Team Deal

In a significant move ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have reportedly agreed to trade center Kristaps Porziņģis to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a three-team deal involving the Brooklyn Nets. The transaction, which is expected to be finalized at the start of the new league year on July 6, will also see the Celtics acquiring forward Georges Niang and a second-round draft pick, while the Nets receive Terance Mann and the No. 22 overall pick in the upcoming draft.

According to Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press, Porziņģis averaged 19.5 points and 6.8 rebounds during the 2024 season, marking a notable contribution to the Celtics, who claimed the NBA championship that year. This trade marks Porziņģis's fourth team in five years, highlighting his tumultuous career trajectory since being drafted by the New York Knicks in 2015.

The Celtics, who are navigating a challenging offseason, recently traded Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers, a move aimed at alleviating their salary cap pressures. The team's payroll exceeds the salary cap, and the trades are strategic steps to position the Celtics more favorably for the future. Under the NBA's financial regulations, getting under the second apron is crucial for maintaining flexibility in player transactions.

"It’s important for us to create a more sustainable roster while also preparing for the future, especially with Jayson Tatum's injury that will keep him sidelined for a significant period," said a Celtics official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the negotiations.

Porziņģis is on an expiring contract worth $30.7 million for the upcoming season, making him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their rosters without long-term financial commitments. His recent health issues, including a bout with illness during the playoffs, have raised questions about his availability, yet he has expressed optimism about his fitness, indicating his intention to participate in EuroBasket this summer.

As the Celtics look ahead to an uncertain offseason, the Hawks are eager to integrate Porziņģis into their lineup. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute offensively could complement the Hawks' existing roster, which includes rising star AJ Griffin and established players like Trae Young.

The Nets, gaining additional draft capital, aim to rebuild their team around a younger core, and the draft picks acquired from the Hawks will provide them with more opportunities to do so. With five picks in the upcoming draft, including Nos. 8, 19, 26, 27, and now 22, the Nets are well-positioned to make impactful selections.

In conclusion, this trade signifies a pivotal moment for all three franchises involved. The Celtics seek to reconfigure their roster amidst injuries and salary cap concerns, the Hawks aim to enhance their competitive edge, and the Nets are focusing on a rebuilding strategy that could redefine their future. As the NBA's offseason unfolds, the implications of this trade will resonate throughout the league, setting the stage for an intriguing 2025 season.