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Celtics Trade Niang for RJ Luis Jr., Bolster Frontcourt with Chris Boucher Signing

Boston trimmed its payroll below the NBA’s second luxury tax apron to preserve financial flexibility during a rebuilding season.

Overview

  • The Celtics sent Georges Niang and two future second-round picks to the Utah Jazz in exchange for 22-year-old rookie RJ Luis Jr. on a two-way contract.
  • Boston used the roster spot created by that two-way deal to sign veteran forward Chris Boucher to a one-year, $3.3 million contract.
  • Those transactions cut over $34 million in luxury tax liabilities, leaving the team about $7.8 million below the NBA’s second tax apron.
  • With Jayson Tatum out for 2025-26 following Achilles surgery, the front office is emphasizing youth accumulation and cost-controlled depth in its frontcourt.
  • The organization has also expressed interest in signing former Spurs center Charles Bassey after his dominant Summer League showing.