The 2024-25 Boston Celtics are looking to repeat as NBA champions following an impressive run in the 2023-24 campaign, winning 64 games in the regular season and going 16-3 in the playoffs. Jaylen Brown captured Eastern Conference MVP and Finals MVP while Jayson Tatum showed tremendous leadership by playing an all-around efficient game for his side to be nearly unbeatable all year. Of course, the Celtics roster was filled with talent beyond their two stars including Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Kristaps Porzingis. Armed with the same core heading into next season, we rank the Celtics players into six tiers.
Tier 1: Superstars
Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown
Even if Jayson Tatum “missed out” on the Finals MVP award last year, he is still the centerpiece of the Celtics. In 2023-24, Tatum averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 47.1% from the field and 37.6% from three-point range. His ability to take over games as both a scorer and a defender was key to the Celtics’ championship run and it will be again in 2024-25. Tatum’s leadership, versatility, and clutch performances make him an MVP candidate and one of the two undisputed leaders of this team. Expect the superstar forward to continue showcasing his all-around game in terms of playmaking, rebounding, and playing elite defense because his offense is there for everyone to see.
Jaylen Brown took his game to new heights last season, earning Finals MVP honors and solidifying his status as a legitimate superstar. Silencing all doubters about his prestige as a supermax player, Brown averaged 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 49.9% from the floor and 35.4% from beyond the arc. His explosive scoring ability, elite athleticism, and defensive prowess make him a perfect complement to Tatum. With another year of experience under his belt, Brown is set to continue his upward trajectory as one of the league’s top wings.
Tier 2: All-Stars
Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday is one of the best two-way guards in the NBA, bringing elite defense, playmaking, and leadership to the Celtics. Last season, he averaged 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game while shooting 48.0% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range. Even Celtics fans are shocked at how the Milwaukee Bucks allowed the Celtics to nab the player who was the missing piece for their championship run. Most likely a future Hall of Famer, Holiday’s ability to guard the opposing team’s best perimeter player while running the offense makes him invaluable to Boston’s success. His presence adds championship experience and stability to an already-loaded Celtics lineup.
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis
Derrick White emerged as a key contributor for the Celtics last season, providing elite perimeter defense and reliable scoring as he nearly made his first All-Star Team. White averaged 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game while shooting 39.6% from three-point range. His ability to defend multiple positions and knock down clutch shots makes him one of the league’s most underrated guards. With Holiday on the roster, White’s versatility will allow him to thrive in various roles, whether as a starter or off the bench.
Kristaps Porzingis had a resurgence last season, reminding everyone of his unique skill set as a 7’3” sharpshooter and shot-blocker even if he wasn’t entirely needed to win a title. In 2023-24, Porzingis averaged 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 37.5% from three. His ability to stretch the floor on offense and protect the rim on defense adds a new dimension to the Celtics’ attack. Once Porzingis gets healthy as he will be out for a few months, he could be the X-factor in Boston’s pursuit of back-to-back titles.
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Al Horford, Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser
Al Horford remains a vital piece of the Celtics’ rotation, even at 38 years old, providing leadership, defense, and floor spacing. Last season, Horford averaged 8.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 41.9% from three-point range. His experience, basketball IQ, and ability to guard multiple positions make him invaluable in high-pressure situations. As he enters his 18th season, Horford’s steady presence will be crucial in guiding the Celtics’ younger players.
Payton Pritchard has carved out a solid role as a sharpshooter and energy player off the bench. In a strong role last season (22.3 MPG), Pritchard averaged 9.6 points per game while shooting 38.5% from three-point range. His ability to provide instant offense and stretch the floor makes him a valuable weapon for the Celtics’ second unit. With an increased role, Pritchard could become an even more significant contributor this season.
The 26-year-old Sam Hauser has developed into a reliable three-point specialist for the Celtics. Last season, Hauser averaged 9.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 42.4% from beyond the arc. His ability to space the floor and knock down open shots adds valuable depth to Boston’s wing rotation. Hauser’s shooting will be crucial in keeping defenses honest and opening up lanes for the Celtics’ stars.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Luke Kornet, Xavier Tillman Sr.
Luke Kornet is a serviceable big man who provides depth in the frontcourt. Last season, he averaged 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in limited minutes. Kornet’s size (7’2”, 250 lbs) and ability to protect the rim make him a useful piece in certain matchups, especially when the Celtics need to manage minutes for their primary bigs.
Xavier Tillman Sr. is a physical forward who brings toughness and rebounding to the Celtics’ frontcourt. A former player for the Memphis Grizzlies, Tillman’s defensive versatility and hustle will make him a valuable contributor off the bench, particularly in matchups that require a strong interior presence. With Porzingis out for a few months, Tillman will have opportunities to showcase his presence inside.
Tier 6: Bench
JD Davison, Baylor Scheierman, Neemias Queta, Jordan Walsh, Jaden Springer
JD Davison is an athletic young shooting guard with potential as a dynamic playmaker. After spending most of his career developing in the G League, Davison will look to earn minutes as a backup point guard. His speed and creativity could make him a spark plug off the bench.
Baylor Scheierman is a rookie shooting guard standing at 6’6” known for his shooting and versatility. As a second-round pick, he’ll need time to adjust to the NBA, but his ability to space the floor could earn him spot minutes. Scheierman’s development will be key to his long-term role with the team.
Neemias Queta is a big-bodied center who provides depth and shot-blocking. After limited action last season (11.9 MPG), Queta will compete for minutes as a rim protector and rebounder. His size and strength make him a valuable bench option in certain matchups.
Jordan Walsh is a 20-year-old forward with a reputation for defense and energy. Known for his athleticism and work ethic, Walsh will likely see limited action as he develops his offensive game. His hustle and defensive potential could earn him minutes in specific situations.
The 6’4” Jaden Springer is a young guard with a defensive upside and developing offensive skills. After spending time in the G League, he’ll aim to crack the Celtics’ rotation as a defensive specialist. Springer’s growth as a shooter and playmaker will determine his role moving forward.
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