Celtics reshape roster with Niang trade, Boucher signing

The Boston Celtics have executed two pivotal roster moves aimed at managing payroll and adding depth ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Boston traded forward Georges Niang, who was acquired in an offseason trade for Kristaps Porzingis, alongside two future second-round picks, to the Utah Jazz in exchange for rookie RJ Luis Jr., the 2024–25 Big East Player of the Year, now on a two-way contract. 

This move clears over $8 million in salary, helping the team drop nearly $34 million in luxury tax liabilities and placing them more than $7.8 million below the second tax apron. 

For Utah, re-acquiring Niang, linked with them from 2017 to 2021, adds veteran shooting and playoff seasoning to a youthful core.

With the salary room created, Boston has signed veteran big man Chris Boucher to a one-year, $3.3 million fully guaranteed contract. 

Boucher brings positional versatility – capable of playing the 3, 4, or 5 – and career shooting splits around 50% from the field and 36% from three-point range. He’s expected to fill a key role in the frontcourt amid Jayson Tatum’s absence due to injury.

ANALYSIS: These moves reflect the Celtics' “gap year” strategy – prioritizing financial flexibility during Tatum’s rehab period while relying on unproven players stepping up. With departures including Kristaps Porziņģis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet, Boston is banking on internal development plus Boucher’s depth support. 

The Celtics cleared financial hurdles with the Niang trade and smartly reinvested in Boucher – a seasoned, contract-friendly piece. Now positioned under the tax apron, Boston enters 2025–26 with a leaner payroll and optimism that its younger roster and depth can hold the fort while Tatum heals.