Thu Feb 05 22:20:00 UTC 2026: # Celtics Make Multiple Moves Ahead of Trade Deadline, Acquire Vucevic and Shed Luxury Tax
The Story:
The Boston Celtics have been active ahead of the February 6, 2026, NBA trade deadline, executing two trades aimed at improving their roster and reducing their luxury tax burden. The Celtics traded veteran forward Chris Boucher to the Utah Jazz along with a 2027 second-round pick. Simultaneously, Boston acquired center Nikola Vučević from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for guard Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick.
Key Points:
* The Celtics traded Chris Boucher to the Utah Jazz for salary cap relief.
* The Celtics also sent a 2027 second-round pick (from Denver) to the Jazz.
* Chris Boucher had a $2.3 million expiring contract and played in only nine games.
* The Boucher trade gets the Celtics closer to being under the luxury tax line (just $3.6 million above after the trade).
* The Celtics acquired Nikola Vučević and a second-round pick from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for guard Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick earlier in the week.
Critical Analysis:
The Celtics appear to be strategically balancing short-term roster improvement with long-term financial flexibility. By offloading Boucher’s salary, they create cap space and roster flexibility while acquiring a proven center in Nikola Vucevic. The prior trade of Xavier Tillman shows the team is targeting specific needs. Forsberg’s article suggests they may not be done. This multi-pronged approach indicates a calculated effort to contend for a championship while managing the luxury tax implications.
Key Takeaways:
* The Celtics are prioritizing frontcourt depth with the acquisition of Nikola Vučević.
* Reducing the luxury tax bill is a clear objective for the Celtics’ front office.
* The team is willing to part with role players and future draft capital to achieve its goals.
* The Celtics are actively reshaping their roster ahead of a playoff push.
* Brad Stevens is making calculated moves, balancing immediate improvement and financial responsibility.
First Piper 