The NBA’s trade season has been nothing short of explosive. In a string of high-profile moves, the Portland Trail Blazers recently parted ways with Damian Lillard, sending him to the Milwaukee Bucks. But the reverberations didn’t end there. Jrue Holiday, initially received by the Blazers in the Lillard deal, is now making his way to the Boston Celtics.
The Celtics’ acquisition of Jrue Holiday has them sending Robert Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, a 2024 first-round pick (originally from Golden State Warriors), and an unprotected 2029 first-round pick their way. It’s worth noting that Holiday’s desire to play for Boston was instrumental in this decision, with both Shams Charania and Adrian Wojnarowski highlighting Boston’s top position on Holiday’s preferred team list.
Boston’s decision to snag Holiday was not without competition. Heavyweights like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat had shown keen interest. But with the Celtics’ persuasive offer, the five-time All-Defensive guard will now don the green jersey. Notably, even though Holiday’s contract has only a year to run, indications suggest that Boston is eyeing a long-term association with him.
The impact of Holiday’s entry to the Celtics will be immediate. Boston, having previously traded Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies, will now see Holiday forming a formidable defensive duo with Derrick White, last season’s All-Defensive awardee.
On the other side of the spectrum, the Trail Blazers are on an aggressive asset-building mission. Post the Lillard trade, they’ve brought in talents like Brogdon, Williams, Deandre Ayton, and Toumani Camara, not to mention three coveted first-round picks and two potential pick swaps. The Lillard chapter might be over for Portland, but they’ve made a swift transition to the future. Wojnarowski also hints that while Williams might stay in Portland, Brogdon could be on the move again, amplifying the Blazers’ asset-stacking game.
All in all, it’s a frenetic time in the NBA, with teams like the Trail Blazers ensuring they have a vision for the future, even as the Celtics gear up for a challenging season ahead.