Boston Celtics Season Preview
Re-signed: Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet, Neemias Queta, Jayson Tatum, Xavier Tillman, Derrick White
Additions: Lonnie Walker IV (free agency)
Draft Picks: Baylor Scheierman (No. 30 pick), Anton Watson (No. 54 pick)
Departures: Svi Mykhailiuk (signed with Jazz)
Unsigned Free Agents: Oshae Brissett, JD Davison
Last Season Recap
The Celtics capped off an incredible 2023-2024 season by securing their 18th NBA championship. This dominant run was fueled by the continued rise of Jayson Tatum, who earned First-Team All-NBA honors, and Jaylen Brown, who excelled throughout the postseason. Coach Joe Mazzulla also made significant strides, and the addition of Jrue Holiday proved to be the missing piece for Boston’s championship puzzle. With excellent contributions from every level of the organization, including ownership making Brown the highest-paid player in NBA history and Brad Stevens pulling off a savvy trade for Holiday, the Celtics stood above the competition.
Summer Summary
After a 64-win season and a championship, Boston’s main task this offseason was retaining continuity while ensuring they didn’t fall behind in the ever-competitive NBA landscape. With teams constantly gunning for the top spot, even champions can’t afford complacency. The Celtics doubled down on their core, handing out major extensions to Tatum and Derrick White, signaling their intent to remain atop the league.
Though they added Lonnie Walker IV to bolster their depth, Boston mainly focused on keeping their winning formula intact, even as they dealt with the pressures of the luxury tax. The continuity of this roster, built by Stevens and former GM Danny Ainge, keeps the Celtics firmly in the conversation for another deep playoff run.
Rookie Profile
Introducing Baylor Scheierman, Boston’s No. 30 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, known for his shooting and versatility. Scheierman brings additional depth to a roster already loaded with talent.
Spotlight on Al Horford
Al Horford has been an integral part of Boston’s success over the past few years, providing veteran leadership and steady play. However, turning 39 this season, questions linger about how much longer he can maintain his high level of play. If Horford begins to decline, the Celtics may face challenges in the frontcourt, especially if injury-prone Kristaps Porziņģis cannot stay healthy or if Xavier Tillman isn’t ready for significant minutes.
Season Outlook
With the core of a championship team intact, the Celtics are well-positioned to defend their title and aim for back-to-back championships, something Boston hasn’t achieved since 1969. While the road to a repeat is always fraught with obstacles—such as injuries, complacency, or locker-room dynamics—Boston is built for another run.
If the team can stay healthy and avoid any internal or external disruptions, the Celtics are once again the favorites. The road to the 2025 NBA championship will likely go through Boston.
