The Boston Celtics have been mostly looking to ditch pricey players this summer, but they have also quietly brought in several new pieces who could contribute even when All-Star forward Jayson Tatum returns from his Achilles tendon tear, likely in 2026-27.
Boston selected a whopping three players in the 2025 draft last week, adding Real Madrid wing Hugo Gonzalez, Kentucky center Amari Williams, and VCU guard Max Shulga. The Celtics also signed free agent big man Luka Garza and forward Josh Minott to minimum deals.
But the blockbuster moves grabbing the most headlines have been the Celtics’ separate trades of starters Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday in exchange for guard Anfernee Simons, forward Georges Niang, and three second round draft selections. The Celtics have lost center Luke Kornet, who agreed to a three-season, $41 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs as a free agent.
Garza is no Porzingis, but he’s a solid center. The 6-foot-10 pro played sparingly for Minnesota in 2024-25, averaging 3.5 points on 49.5% shooting from the floor and 68.6% shooting from the foul line and 1.4 rebounds in 5.6 minutes per.
He released a statement to Instagram, bidding a fond farewell to Timberwolves fans and tipping his cap to Boston as he prepares to touch down.
“MINNESOTA!!! Thank you for everything these last 3 years 🙏🏼 I’ve loved every second of putting that Timberwolves jersey on,” Garza wrote. “So many memories, moments, and wins I will cherish forever. Thank you to the fans, all my teammates, and the organization for allowing me to live my dream in Minny! Boston, it’s time to work! 🙇🏻♂️🍀”
