Overview

• Stevens explained at media day that Boston prioritized cost savings and size, noting Niang’s salary would trigger a far larger luxury-tax hit than a minimum-level forward.
• The Celtics signed Chris Boucher to a one-year, $3.3 million contract after determining his profile and price aligned with their roster needs.
• Boston had acquired Niang in July as part of the Kristaps Porzingis trade, then sent him and two second-round picks to Utah in mid-August for two-way guard RJ Luis Jr.
• Utah announced Niang has a fourth metatarsal stress reaction in his left foot, with a reevaluation set for the coming weeks.
• Stevens said the decision was difficult given Niang’s Massachusetts roots and added the team expects to carry 14 players into the season.