Boston Celtics Make Bold Moves in 2026 Offseason
The Boston Celtics have been busy in the 2026 offseason, making key signings and trades to bolster their roster. With a focus on rebuilding and strengthening their team, the Celtics aim to make a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
Free Agent Signings
The Celtics have signed several key free agents, including Mitchell Robinson, Ron Harper Jr., Mike Conley Jr., Tucker DeVries, and Milos Uzan. These signings bring a mix of youth and experience to the team, with Robinson and Harper Jr. providing a boost to the Celtics' frontcourt.
Robinson, a 25-year-old center, signed a three-year, $47.4 million deal using the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Harper Jr., a 24-year-old small forward, re-signed with the Celtics on a four-year, $13.7 million deal using non-Bird rights.
Trades
The Celtics made a significant trade with the Philadelphia 76ers, acquiring Paul George in exchange for Jaylen Brown. This move brings a veteran scorer to the Celtics' lineup, with George averaging 22.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game last season.
Draft Picks
The Celtics selected Chris Cenac Jr. with the 27th overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft. Cenac Jr. signed a rookie scale contract with the Celtics, with the first two years guaranteed.
Two-Way Signings
The Celtics also signed Dillon Mitchell and Amari Williams to two-way contracts. Mitchell, a 22-year-old guard, signed a one-year, $91,000 partial guarantee, while Williams, a 21-year-old forward, signed a one-year, $91,000 partial guarantee.
Departed/Unsigned Free Agents
The Celtics have lost several players in free agency, including Max Shulga, John Tonje, and Nikola Vucevic. These departures bring a mix of youth and experience to the NBA market, with Shulga and Tonje reportedly signing with Real Madrid and the Trail Blazers, respectively.
Other Roster Moves
The Celtics have also signed Neemias Queta to a four-year, $56 million veteran contract extension that begins in 2027/28. Queta, a 25-year-old center, averaged 10.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game last season.
Salary Cap Situation
The Celtics are operating over the cap and below the first tax apron, with a team salary of $198.7 million. The Celtics have a full bi-annual exception available and five traded player exceptions available, with the largest worth $27.7 million.
