The Boston Celtics were dealt two brutal blows in their second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks. Not only did they lose the series and were eliminated from the playoffs, but they also saw superstar forward Jayson Tatum go down with a torn Achilles.

While the Celtics are expected to move off a number of their massive contracts, such as Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, they are still looking to contend for a title. While it might be a difficult feat to remain at the top of the East if they trade away some key players, that could be where they make some moves elsewhere.

The Nets are the only team that is going to have the cap space the Celtics would need to absorb the kind of salary needed in single-team deals.

Horford's case is different because he is a free agent and, at 39 years old, could retire. That said, HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reported that Horford will return to the NBA next season. "The general sense around the league and those close to Horford is that he’ll continue to play next season," Scotto wrote.

Currently, the Celtics are facing a substantial tax bill that could reach as high as $280 million. That figure stems from their sky-high payroll and their status as a repeater team — meaning they've gone over the cap in three of the last four years.

The first domino has fallen, and it was a surprise. The Memphis Grizzlies sent Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic for Kenatvious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and FOUR unprotected first-round picks as well as one lightly protected pick swap.

Jrue Holiday has been rumored to be a trade candidate for the Celtics this offseason as they potentially look to cut payroll.

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) handles the ball against Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane, left, in the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, March 31, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brandon Dill) AP