The deal marks the second time Holiday has found himself moved to Portland, as the Milwaukee Bucks also sent him there in the 2023 Damian Lillard trade. The rebuilding Blazers moved him to Boston soon afterward, but now, they get him back in a blockbuster deal.
Boston, meanwhile, is beginning its efforts to save money against the second apron, as Simons makes roughly $5 million less than Holiday and is on an expiring contract, whereas Holiday, 35, has three expensive seasons left on his deal. Simons is also nine years younger at 26...
Fair to say the Celtics "won" the trade, but it sucks that they have to make these trades in the first place. Why the players agreed to this ridiculous CBA is beyond my understanding.
Did you listen to the press conferences. In case you missed it, there was a lot of interesting stuff there. For example:
Coach is signed for multiple seasons (so not a lame duck as was being reported)
Brown's on track for recovery by training camp, and full go to start the season
Tatum's recovering well, is staying local, and has been working there every day
They drafted this kid because of his cutting ability and his hustle (2 things they showed almost none of at times last year)
They've been following this kid for years
They "would love" both Horford and Kornet back, but won't pressure them
And, from the way he was talking, I expect more trading away of salary.