Celtics GM Brad Stevens Unlikely to Embrace Full Tank Strategy
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Boston’s payroll has taken a hit from the NBA’s new second-apron restrictions, the franchise’s pending sale and Jayson Tatum’s season-ending Achilles injury. In response, the Celtics have moved Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday and Georges Niang to cut costs.
Despite those setbacks, president of basketball operations Brad Stevens is not expected to steer the team into an all-out tank, according to Chris Forsberg of NBC Sports Boston. Forsberg pointed to a defining moment from the 2014/15 season, when Stevens was coaching a roster that opened 13-26 after missing the playoffs the previous year. Confronted by forward Jae Crowder about whether losing was acceptable, Stevens refused to concede the season. Boston rallied to finish 40-42 and reached the first round of the playoffs.
Forsberg writes that the same mindset now guides Stevens in the front office. Although a high pick in the talent-heavy 2026 draft would be valuable, he is expected to prioritize competitiveness over intentionally sliding down the standings, making it unlikely the Celtics will sacrifice key future assets solely to improve lottery odds.
Source: Hoops Rumors
