Patryk Stachowiak
Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale didn’t mince words when he labeled the Boston Celtics as one of five NBA teams whose rosters “make zero sense” heading into the 2025-26 campaign.
At the heart of his criticism? Boston’s glaring deficiency in the frontcourt.
“Beantown’s 4-5 rotation is currently populated by Sam Hauser, Georges Niang, Xavier Tillman, Neemias Queta, Josh Minnott and Luka Garza”
Favale noted.
“That is rough. Especially when it’s only a matter of time before Hauser or Niang ambles his way onto the chopping block as the Celtics continue to slash operating costs.”
Jayson Tatum. Source: espn.com
With superstar talent sidelined and the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly physical, the Celtics’ undersized front line raises strategic red flags. Favale speculated that the front office could be banking on a budget-friendly reunion with veteran Al Horford possibly hinging on the stalled restricted free agency saga involving Jonathan Kuminga or pursuing a trade to fill the void.
Boston’s roster is already guard-heavy and cap-strapped, making a free-agent splash improbable. However, the recent waiving of G League MVP JD Davison frees up a roster spot, opening the door for a tactical pivot.
As it stands, Boston remains committed to competing. But with physical matchups looming and Eastern contenders boasting size and depth, the Celtics will need to bulk up their frontcourt or risk getting bullied off the playoff path.