Boston Celtics president Brad Stevens reaffirmed that the franchise remains committed to pursuing championships even amid a challenging offseason. In a recent broadcast appearance, he made it clear that competing at the highest level guides every decision.
“I don’t ever put a ceiling on our team … the whole goal … is competing for championships … (it’s) going to be our north star as we re-tool,” Stevens said, according to Bobby Manning.
Following their second-round exit to the New York Knicks and a devastating Achilles injury to Jayson Tatum, Boston entered the offseason facing roster and salary cap challenges. The team traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, acquiring Anfernee Simons and Georges Niang as part of efforts to manage the second apron under the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement.
Stevens addressed the impact of these changes, saying, “It’s part of this new CBA and obviously the 2nd apron… We’re lucky to get the guys that we got back in those trades, specifically Simons and Niang.” He also acknowledged the emotional aspect of seeing former players return, adding, “When they come back to Boston this year, it’ll be pretty special, the tributes.”
Despite speculation about a transitional year, Stevens dismissed the notion of taking a step back. “We’re gonna put our best foot forward and play to the best of our ability, and play to the strengths of our team,” he said. “We probably have to be a little more (geared toward) each individual’s strengths.”
The Celtics’ depth and experience, particularly with Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, remain key assets. Stevens noted that the organization planned for the luxury tax changes years ago. “We knew even 3 years ago that the new CBA was kicking in and it was slowly going to be fully operational … those were the years we really went all in … we were fortunate enough to win one. But the reality is that’s not gonna be do-able forever.”
Stevens praised Simons as a dynamic addition, calling him “a guy that can really score the ball … one of the best shooters in the league … tough shot-maker … just a really good player.”
He also provided an update on Tatum’s rehabilitation, saying, “He seems to be doing well … rehabbing is hard … he got the surgery right away and from that point on, the mindset was we’re going after this thing … I’ve been really encouraged … he’s stayed (in Boston) … it’s been fun to spend time with him every day.”
