The Boston Celtics, fresh off their record-setting 18th NBA championship in 2024 and a 61-win regular season, are facing intense speculation about their roster moves this summer. With their payroll pushing them dangerously close to the NBA’s punitive “second apron,” a threshold that imposes severe financial penalties and tight restrictions on trades and signings, many experts and fans have assumed the Celtics will look to shed salary. The only viable path to get under this apron is to trade away some of their high-priced talent—players who were instrumental in their recent success.
Despite reports suggesting the Celtics aren’t “desperate” to slash their payroll, trade rumors continue to swirl, with one name consistently popping up: 34-year-old, 16-year veteran point guard Jrue Holiday. Acquired before the 2023-2024 season, Holiday was a cornerstone of Boston’s championship run, but his $32.4 million salary for the upcoming season makes him a prime candidate for a move.
A Blockbuster Swap on the Horizon?
Barstool Sports writer and Celtics expert Dan Greenberg stirred the pot on Thursday, suggesting a bold trade that would send Holiday across the country. “Feels like we’re headed for a Jrue for DeRozan swap,” Greenberg wrote, referring to Sacramento Kings small forward DeMar DeRozan, a 35-year-old, six-time All-Star and fellow 16-year veteran.
A one-for-one trade swapping Holiday for DeRozan would address Boston’s financial concerns. DeRozan, who signed a three-year, $73.89 million contract with the Chicago Bulls before being traded to Sacramento prior to the 2024-2025 season, is owed $24.75 million next season. Trading Holiday’s $32.4 million contract for DeRozan’s lower salary would leave the Celtics just $13.3 million above the second apron threshold, a significant step toward financial flexibility. Meanwhile, Sacramento would remain $19 million under the first apron, giving them room to pursue additional deals without incurring new penalties.
Trading Defense for Offense
The proposed trade makes sense for both teams, but it would represent a shift in identity for the Celtics. DeRozan, who averaged 22.2 points per game last season for the Kings, brings a potent scoring punch to Boston’s lineup. In contrast, Holiday contributed 11.1 points per game but is renowned for his elite defense, having finished in the top eight for Defensive Player of the Year voting five times. The swap would see Boston prioritize offensive firepower over defensive tenacity, a gamble for a team that thrived on its balanced roster during their championship run.
For Sacramento, the trade fills a critical need. NBA analyst Jake Fischer reported in a Thursday newsletter that the Kings, under new general manager Scott Perry, are prioritizing improved playmaking. Perry emphasized the need for an experienced point guard during his introductory press conference, and Holiday fits the bill perfectly. Fischer also noted that Sacramento has been linked to other guards, including former Celtics Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon, both currently with the Washington Wizards. However, Holiday’s championship pedigree and defensive prowess make him an ideal target for a Kings team looking to elevate their roster.
A Financial and Strategic Fit
The Holiday-for-DeRozan swap aligns with both teams’ financial and strategic goals. For the Celtics, shedding Holiday’s salary brings them closer to avoiding the second apron’s harsh penalties while adding a proven scorer in DeRozan. For the Kings, acquiring Holiday bolsters their backcourt with a battle-tested leader who can anchor their defense and facilitate their offense.
As the offseason unfolds, this potential trade could reshape the NBA landscape. Will the Celtics pull the trigger on a deal that sends a beloved champion packing? Or will they find another way to navigate their financial constraints? For now, the rumor mill is buzzing, and Celtics fans are bracing for a shocking move that could redefine their roster.