The Boston Celtics’ heartbreaking loss to the Knicks in Game 6 has left them reeling, both on and off the court. A $280 million luxury tax bill and a total payroll commitment of over $500 million are just the beginning of their financial woes. With Jayson Tatum’s ruptured Achilles’ tendon forcing him into retirement, the Celtics must now navigate the challenges of rebuilding without their star player.
The team is facing a potentially catastrophic overhaul, with veteran players like Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday likely to be cut due to financial constraints. The NBA collective bargaining agreement has imposed a harsh penalty on franchises that invest heavily in winning championships, punishing them for assembling All-Star rosters.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledges the team’s failure to achieve their goal, but emphasizes that the players’ effort and dedication should not be diminished. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown is already looking forward to next season, expressing optimism that the team can bounce back without Tatum.
The loss of this era marks the end of an chapter in Celtics history, with the team’s future uncertain. As they navigate the financial and personnel implications of their defeat, one thing is clear: the Celtics must find a way to rebuild and stay competitive, or risk becoming a relic of a bygone era.
Source: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/05/17/sports/celtics-knicks