Celtics enter 2025-26 with overhaul as Tatum's injury reshapes roster

The Boston Celtics enter the 2025-26 season much changed after a summer of roster surgery prompted by Jayson Tatum's torn Achilles and the team's need to clear luxury tax space, leaving Derrick White and Jaylen Brown among the few remaining starters from last year's title team. Management traded Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, allowed Luke Kornet and Al Horford to depart, and brought in a mix of veterans and young pieces while probing trades and free agent options to plug glaring frontcourt holes.

Derrick White, who posted a career-high 16.4 points per game last season, acknowledged the emotional toll of the turnover but said the moves were part of the business. "Yeah, I mean, that is the tough part about the business," White told listeners on his podcast. "You wish we could play with them forever, but this is kind of the way it is. I always wish them the best. There will be a lot of fun when we see them again. And I'm just excited to play with the people we do have." White added he has been focused on individual improvement and preparing for an expanded role with Tatum sidelined.

Boston's front office has been actively exploring alternatives to shore up the center position...