As the NBA offseason approaches, speculation around potential trades and roster moves intensifies. One situation drawing attention involves Boston Celtics veteran guard Jrue Holiday. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer via the Stein Line Substack, some rival
NBA executives believe the Celtics would need to attach an additional asset—likely draft compensation—if they hope to move Holiday in a trade this summer.
Holiday remains a highly respected player around the league. A two-time All-Star, two-time NBA champion, and a six-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, he brings leadership, elite perimeter defense, and playoff experience to any roster. However, several factors complicate the trade landscape when it comes to moving him. Chief among those concerns is his contract. Holiday has at least two years remaining on his deal, which totals over $67 million. Furthermore, he holds a $37.2 million player option for the 2027-28 season. With Holiday turning 35 next month, there is a strong likelihood he will exercise that option, especially as he approaches the twilight of his career.
While Holiday’s presence on the floor remains valuable, his age and sizable contract could limit the number of teams willing to absorb his salary without additional compensation from Boston. Several executives reportedly view the Celtics’ cap situation as a motivating factor behind the potential move. Boston operated above the second apron this past season, facing significant restrictions in trades, free agency, and team-building flexibility. Trading Holiday could be a method to alleviate some of those financial constraints.
That said, there is no guarantee the Celtics will part ways with the veteran guard. Jay King of The Athletic recently reported that “several contending teams” might express interest in Holiday if he were made available, indicating that his value is still recognized, particularly among teams looking for championship experience and defensive prowess. Still, any trade scenario that forces Boston to include draft assets may give the team pause.
Holiday was a key piece in Boston’s recent title run, even if his statistical output took a dip with Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and others leading the offense. In the 2024–25 regular season, he averaged 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. While not gaudy numbers, his impact was more than measurable in clutch situations and defensive matchups.
The Celtics’ second-round exit at the hands of the New York Knicks has only intensified questions about the team’s future. Tatum’s Achilles injury, which could impact his availability next season, further complicates the situation. If Boston chooses to retool its roster or preserve flexibility under the restrictive new collective bargaining agreement, moving Holiday might make sense. However, if the franchise opts to maintain its championship core in hopes of another run, keeping Holiday could be a priority.
Ultimately, Boston faces a challenging decision. Holiday’s experience and contributions are not easily replaced, but his contract and age may prompt the front office to explore trade options—possibly at the cost of valuable future assets.