NBA Offseason Trade: Boston Celtics sent Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta Hawks in blockbuster three-team deal

In a major shake-up ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics have traded Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a blockbuster three-team deal also involving the Brooklyn Nets. The deal, which comes just a day after the Celtics moved Jrue Holiday to Portland, is a clear signal that Boston is restructuring its roster while shedding luxury tax burdens. The transaction, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, includes key assets and financial relief for all three franchises.The Celtics, Hawks, and Nets orchestrated a strategic exchange of players and picks that aligns with both competitive and financial goals for each team. According to NBA insider Shams Charania:“BREAKING: Boston, Atlanta and Brooklyn are finalizing a three-team trade that sends Kristaps Porzingis and a second-round pick to the Hawks, Terance Mann and Atlanta's No. 22 pick to the Nets, and Georges Niang and a second-rounder to the Celtics.”Charania added, “Opportunistic acquisitions for the Hawks and Nets -- while the Celtics are now out of the salary cap's second apron.”Here's how the assets moved among the three teams according to ESPN—Atlanta Hawks acquired: Boston Celtics acquired:Brooklyn Nets acquired:Porzingis’ stint in Boston, though brief, left a strong impression. Over two seasons, the 7’3” big man averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, shooting 41.2% from beyond the arc. He was instrumental in the Celtics’ 2024 title run, with a memorable Game 1 performance in the Finals before injuries and a mystery illness limited his consistency.Ahead of the trade, Porzingis posted on Instagram:“I've been feeling excellent all offseason and looking forward to a healthy and strong European Championship tournament with my NT.”He’s now expected to join Latvia at EuroBasket in August.This move clears the Celtics of a significant financial burden. Combined with the Holiday trade, the team is now $4.5 million under the second apron and has avoided nearly $180 million in projected tax penalties, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks.Georges Niang, a Massachusetts native, brings veteran experience and outside shooting to Boston’s bench. He’s played for the Pacers, Jazz, 76ers, Cavs, and Hawks.For Brooklyn, acquiring the No. 22 pick (originally from the Lakers) brings their total to five first-round selections in Wednesday’s draft: Nos. 8, 19, 22, 26, and 27. The Nets also added Mann, whose contract helps them absorb salary while maintaining flexibility under the cap.Also Read: NBA Trade News: Boston Celtics send Jrue Holiday to Portland Trail Blazers in surprise deal for Anfernee Simons and picksWith these moves, the NBA offseason is already off to an electrifying start, and Wednesday’s draft is poised to be even more unpredictable.