News Summary
The Boston Celtics have completed a trade sending forward Georges Niang to the Utah Jazz along with two second-round draft picks, acquiring rookie RJ Luis Jr. in return. The Celtics also signed Chris Boucher to strengthen their roster. This move is part of Boston’s strategy to reshape their team during the offseason, reducing their luxury tax expenses significantly. While Niang’s departure marks a shift for the Celtics, Utah gains a seasoned player to support their young roster. The Celtics continue to explore further trades as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Boston Celtics Trade Forward Georges Niang to Utah Jazz
The Boston Celtics have traded forward Georges Niang along with two future second-round draft picks to the Utah Jazz in exchange for rookie RJ Luis Jr., as reported on Tuesday. This significant roster move signals the Celtics’ ongoing strategy to reshuffle their team during this offseason.
In conjunction with the trade, the Celtics have also signed Chris Boucher to a one-year contract worth $3.3 million. Boucher, who played for the Toronto Raptors over the past seven seasons, was part of the team when they clinched the NBA championship in 2019.
Details of the Trade
The transaction involving Niang comes just a month after he was acquired by the Celtics in a three-team deal that included the formidable Kristaps Porzingis being sent to Atlanta. Niang has previously spent four seasons with the Utah Jazz before his brief stint in Boston.
During the last NBA season, Niang participated in 79 games, contributing an average of 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, split between Atlanta and Cleveland. By trading Niang, the Celtics have effectively removed the final year of his contract, which translates to an $8 million reduction in luxury tax expenses for the team.
The Celtics’ financial maneuvering positions them nearly $8 million below the NBA’s second penalty apron and around $5.4 million above the first apron after the addition of Boucher. As a result of these changes, Boston’s tax bill significantly decreases, dropping from $73.1 million to $30.4 million.
Impact on Team Roster
Niang’s departure is just one of several roster changes this offseason, where the Celtics have also traded players like Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and Al Horford. This strategy reflects Boston’s intention to rebuild during a pivotal year as they navigate the recovery of key player Jayson Tatum from an Achilles injury sustained in the playoff series against the New York Knicks.
On the other hand, Utah benefits from acquiring Niang’s veteran experience, which is vital for their younger team that features promising players like No. 5 overall pick Ace Bailey. Notably, Niang achieved a career-high three-point shooting percentage of 40% last season, adding a shooting presence to the Jazz roster.
Introducing RJ Luis Jr. and Chris Boucher
Rookie RJ Luis Jr., who will be joining the Celtics, is celebrated as the 2024-25 Big East Player of the Year after a standout performance at St. John’s University. His arrival adds a youthful spark to the Boston roster.
Through the signing of Chris Boucher, who averaged 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds last season, Boston strengthens its frontcourt depth. Boucher’s established presence is expected to complement the team’s strategic direction in the upcoming season.
Future Moves
Despite the recent trades, the Celtics seem to be actively pursuing further changes, with reports indicating that they are still shopping guard Anfernee Simons, whose $27.7 million contract is in its final year. The Celtics aim to optimize their roster as they prepare for the challenges of the next NBA season.
The Boston Celtics’ recent trades and signings make it clear that they are committed to reshaping the team as they work towards a promising future while managing their financial obligations effectively.
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Additional Resources
- NBA.com: Celtics Trade Georges Niang to Jazz
- New York Post: Celtics Trade Georges Niang to Jazz
- CelticsBlog: Celtics Trade Georges Niang
- NBC Sports Boston: Georges Niang Trade
- SI.com: Celtics Trade Georges Niang
- Wikipedia: Boston Celtics
- Google Search: Georges Niang
- Google Scholar: Georges Niang
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boston Celtics
- Google News: Boston Celtics
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CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
