For the 2025-2026 preseason, the Boston Celtics’ roster has undergone major changes since the championship team from two years ago. There has been a shift in veteran players and the addition of new talents, with younger players needing to take on larger responsibilities. The upcoming season will surely be a transition season, but it also offers a chance to adopt a new approach.
During the offseason, perhaps no other move prompted more conversation than that of veteran big Al Horford, who signed a multiyear deal with the Golden State Warriors. With Horford’s signing, the Celtics also lost 2023 starters Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday in trades.
“It feels weird not seeing Horford on the roster,” said Liam Jordan, a junior at Hingham High School. “He was such a steady guy for the team, so it’s definitely a big change.”
To address these gaps, Boston has introduced new players. Guard Anfernee Simons, acquired in a trade, is anticipated to provide additional scoring in the backcourt. Free agent signing Chris Boucher offers length and defensive versatility and former Iowa star Luka Garza signed a two-year deal to provide center depth. The Celtics added rookie Hugo González in the draft and signed Josh Minott to compete for wing minutes.
“I think it’s cool they’re giving younger players a chance to step up,” said William Watts, another HHS junior. “The Celtics might look different, but sometimes that can make them more exciting.”
The absence of Jayson Tatum will allow Jaylen Brown to assume the role of the leading scorer, while Derrick White will take on an even greater leadership role. The Celtics’ lack of preseason will position Coach Joe Mazzula’s staff to invest greater time in integrating new players into the system. Each new addition and holdover is younger than the veteran talent that was traded away. The first preseason games will have Boston looking to establish itself against the rest of the NBA.
The edge of the Simons and Boucher additions is such that NBA watchers witness the vertical and speedy transition on the offense. Pre-agreed objectives will enable Boston’s new additions and holdovers to witness their vertical and speedy transition on offense, helping Boston catch up to the rest of the NBA. This will ensure that the latest additions, Simons and Boucher, can quickly familiarize themselves with their roles. Overall, adjustments and changes to Boston’s roster will make for a very interesting season and perhaps allow them to contend for another NBA Finals title in years to come.
