Kristap Prozigis
The Hawks will receive Kristaps Porziņģis and a second-round pick from Boston. In exchange, the Celtics will get veteran forward Georges Niang and a second-round pick. The Nets will acquire Terance Mann and the 22nd overall pick in the upcoming draft.
This move is part of Boston’s effort to reduce salary and stay under the NBA’s “second apron” luxury tax threshold.
Trade Details
| Team | In | Out |
|---|---|---|
| Celtics | Georges Niang, 2nd‑round pick | Kristaps Porziņģis, 2nd‑round pick |
| Hawks | Kristaps Porziņģis, 2nd‑round pick | Terance Mann, No. 22 pick (via Nets/Nets facilitation) |
| Nets | Terance Mann, No. 22 overall pick | Terrence Mann, No. 22 overall pick |
💰 Why the Celtics Pulled the Trigger
- Tax Relief: By offloading Porziņģis’ expiring $30.7M contract, Boston avoids the steep second apron tax hit.
- Roster Overhaul: The trade follows another big move—Jrue Holiday was sent to Portland for Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks.
📈 Player Profile: Why Atlanta Hawks Wanted Porziņģis
- Elite Skills: The 29-year-old stretch big averaged around 19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, and 1.5 BPG last season on ~48% shooting.
- Financial Risk: His injury history and recent upper-respiratory issues raised concerns, but his contract expires after 2025–26, making him a low-commitment gamble.
- Competitive Fit: Atlanta hopes its floor-spacing and rim protection can elevate their frontcourt competitiveness.
🔮 Implications Ahead
- Boston Celtics: The team will gain the flexibility to pursue other free agents or absorb mid-level contracts.
- Atlanta Hawks: Add a high-upside big without long-term risk—Porziņģis’ expiring deal could allow them to reassess next summer.
- Brooklyn Nets: Further leverage their cap space by taking on salaries for draft assets, positioning themselves as trade facilitators
📝 Summary
This strategic three-team deal enables Boston to ease its luxury tax burden. Atlanta acquires a talented big with minimal long-term commitment. In contrast, Brooklyn maximizes its cap-forward rebuild by securing additional draft capital.
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