The Boston Celtics entered the offseason realizing they have been going through tough choices, and the monetary realities of sustaining their star-studded roster compelled their hand.
With the NBA’s tax penalties mounting and roster flexibility turning into important, the franchise made vital modifications that broke up its championship core.
The departures hit notably laborious for Jayson Tatum, who turned to social media to specific his gratitude for his former teammates.
The All-Star posted heartfelt messages on social media, acknowledging the contributions of Jrue Vacation, Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet, who helped ship a title simply over a yr in the past.
“Jayson Tatum says farewell to all his former teammates on IG after their departures have been formally introduced,” Daniel Donabedian wrote on X, with screenshots of Tatum’s Instagram tales.
Jayson Tatum says farewell to all his former teammates on IG after their departures have been formally introduced
(Through @jaytatum0) pic.twitter.com/loR0y8mwui
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) July 7, 2025
Vacation’s tenure with the Celtics was temporary however transformative. Acquired earlier than the 2023-24 season, Vacation introduced a championship pedigree and lockdown protection that proved to be essential.
His veteran presence and clutch performances offered the soundness Boston wanted in strain moments.
Porzingis delivered regardless of battling accidents all through his time with the Celtics.
His rim safety and ground spacing created offensive alternatives for Tatum and Jaylen Brown whereas including a dimension the workforce beforehand lacked.
Kornet earned recognition as a beloved locker room presence throughout his 4 seasons.
His power, shot-blocking capability, and team-first mentality made him a useful depth piece who contributed past the stat sheet.
Boston’s failed title protection, together with Tatum’s Achilles harm, provides context to those emotional farewells.
Commerce rumors surrounding Brown and Derrick White recommend extra modifications might observe, because the franchise navigates wage cap constraints whereas making an attempt to stay a real contender.
NEXT: Celtics Get Disappointing Information From Jrue Vacation Commerce