In a recent press conference, Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens made it abundantly clear that regaining flexibility is a top priority for the franchise as they navigate the offseason. “I’ll repeat it over and over, we need to regain our flexibility,” Stevens stated, underscoring the importance of maximizing assets and adjusting their financial strategy.
Stevens acknowledged the challenges posed by the NBA’s new financial landscape, particularly the penalties associated with the second apron, which can significantly impact team spending. “I didn’t realize how real they were until they were staring me in the face over the past month,” he admitted. This newfound awareness has prompted Stevens and the Celtics to reassess their approach to roster construction and financial commitments.
A key focus for the Celtics this offseason will be the potential return of veteran players Al Horford and Luke Kornet. Stevens expressed his desire to bring both players back, stating, “Those guys are huge parts of this organization. They’re going to have, I’m sure, plenty of options all over the place, and that’s well-deserved, but I think that would be a priority.” However, he also emphasized the importance of allowing the players to make their own decisions without undue pressure.
The Celtics have recently made headlines by drafting promising talent, including Hugo González from Real Madrid. Stevens highlighted González’s impressive skill set and experience, noting that he has been on the radar of many teams for quite some time. “He’s obviously been on everybody’s radar for a long time, and then followed his year with a great Real Madrid organization and team closely,” he stated. The plan is to bring González over to Boston for the upcoming season, further emphasizing the Celtics’ commitment to building a younger, more athletic roster.
As the offseason progresses, Stevens has been open about the need for strategic moves to enhance the team’s competitiveness while maintaining financial flexibility. He hinted at the possibility of further salary adjustments to navigate the constraints imposed by the second apron. “We would love to have those guys back,” he reiterated regarding Horford and Kornet, while also recognizing the need to be smart about the financial implications of their decisions.
The Celtics’ recent trades, including the acquisition of Anfernee Simons in exchange for Jrue Holiday, reflect Stevens’ proactive approach to reshaping the roster. This move not only strengthens the team’s offensive capabilities but also secures additional draft picks, showcasing Stevens’ ability to maneuver within the constraints of the salary cap effectively.
As fans eagerly await the next steps in the Celtics’ offseason strategy, Stevens’ candid remarks provide insight into the team’s priorities and the challenges they face. The emphasis on flexibility indicates a commitment to building a sustainable and competitive roster while navigating the complexities of the NBA’s evolving financial landscape.
With the offseason still unfolding, Celtics fans can expect more developments as Stevens and his team work diligently to position the franchise for success in the upcoming season. Whether it’s retaining key players or making strategic trades, the focus remains on creating a cohesive and dynamic team that can contend for championships in the years to come.