The Boston Celtics have just claimed their 18th NBA championship, cementing their legacy as one of the most storied franchises in basketball history. This latest title, achieved by defeating the Dallas Mavericks in five games, is the result of years of strategic planning, shrewd trades, and smart draft picks. The journey began in 2013 with the bold decision to trade franchise legends Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett for a treasure trove of draft picks, which eventually turned into cornerstone players Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Over the following years, the Celtics continued to make key moves, including trading for Al Horford, Derrick White, and Kristaps Porzingis, and re-signing vital players to long-term deals.
These decisions were instrumental in constructing the team that dominated the 2024 season and playoffs. This article explores the key milestones and decisions that led the Celtics to their triumphant 2024 NBA championship, with Jaylen Brown being named Finals MVP for his outstanding performance throughout the series.
June 28, 2013 – Traded Paul Pierce And Kevin Garnett For Draft Picks That Became Jaylen Brown And Jayson Tatum
On June 28, 2013, the Boston Celtics made a franchise-altering trade, sending Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Jason Terry, and D.J. White to the Brooklyn Nets. In return, the Celtics received Gerald Wallace, Kris Humphries, MarShon Brooks, Kris Joseph, Keith Bogans, three first-round picks (2014, 2016, and 2018), and the right to swap first-round picks in 2017.
The Celtics, under GM Danny Ainge, were looking to rebuild. They saw Pierce and Garnett were nearing the end of their careers and opted for accumulating draft picks and young talent to secure their future. This trade was all about setting the foundation for a new era of Celtics basketball.
The Brooklyn Nets, on the other hand, were in win-now mode. They believed adding veterans like Pierce and Garnett would provide the experience and leadership needed to make a deep playoff run. The Nets were willing to sacrifice future assets for immediate success.
The draft picks obtained through this trade proved invaluable. In the 2016 NBA Draft, the Celtics used the third overall pick (thanks to Brooklyn’s poor performance) to select Jaylen Brown. Brown’s rookie season showed promise as he averaged 6.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, gradually developing into a key player.
The 2017 draft was even more pivotal. The Celtics originally had the first overall pick but traded down to the third pick with the Philadelphia 76ers, acquiring an additional future first-round pick in the process. With the third pick, they selected Jayson Tatum. Tatum had an outstanding rookie season, averaging 13.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, quickly showing his potential as a future star.
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum grew into the core of the Celtics’ roster. Brown’s athleticism, defense, and scoring ability, combined with Tatum’s offensive versatility and clutch performances, turned them into one of the most formidable duos in the league. Their development was key to the Celtics’ resurgence and ultimately led to their 2024 NBA Championship.
This trade, initially controversial, turned out to be a masterstroke for the Celtics, illustrating the value of strategic rebuilding and smart drafting. It set the stage for the team’s future success and demonstrated the long-term vision of the Celtics’ front office.
June 18, 2021 – The Return of Al Horford: A Veteran’s Comeback
When the Boston Celtics decided to shake things up in the summer of 2021, they made a bold move by bringing back a familiar face: Al Horford. On June 18, 2021, the Celtics traded Kemba Walker, the 16th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, and a 2025 second-round pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Horford, Moses Brown, and a 2023 second-round pick.
The Celtics needed a steady veteran presence, and Horford, who had already made a significant impact during his first stint with the team, was the perfect candidate. His leadership and experience were crucial for guiding young stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
For the Thunder, this trade was more about offloading Horford’s hefty contract and focusing on their rebuild. Oklahoma City had struggled through a tough 2020-21 season, finishing with a 22-50 record. They were looking to develop their young players and didn’t see Horford as part of their long-term plans.
Horford’s return to Boston paid immediate dividends. In the 2021-22 season, he played 69 games, averaging 10.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His performance in the playoffs was particularly memorable, including a standout 26-point game in the NBA Finals where he hit six three-pointers, setting a debut record.
This trade wasn’t just about financial maneuvering; it was about bringing back a key player who could mentor the young Celtics and contribute significantly on the court. Horford’s presence helped Boston to a 51-31 record and a deep playoff run, setting the stage for their 2024 championship victory.
February 10, 2022 – Trading For A Key Piece In Derrick White
In a bid to enhance their backcourt depth and bolster their playoff aspirations, the Boston Celtics made a season-changing trade on February 10, 2022. They sent Josh Richardson, Romeo Langford, a 2022 first-round pick, and the right to swap first-round picks in 2028 to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Derrick White.
The Celtics identified White as a versatile two-way guard who could provide both defensive solidity and offensive firepower, perfectly complementing stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. At the time of the trade, the Celtics were riding a wave of momentum, which culminated in a strong finish to the 2021-22 regular season with a 51-31 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
White’s immediate impact was evident. In his first 26 games with the Celtics, he averaged 11.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, while shooting 40.9% from the field and 30.6% from three-point range. His performance in the playoffs was particularly impressive, notably scoring 21 points in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors, where he hit five of his eight three-point attempts.
The following season, White’s role expanded significantly. He started 70 games and played in all 82, averaging 12.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. His shooting improved to 46.2% from the field and 38.1% from three-point range, underscoring his development and value to the team.
During the 2023-24 season, White continued to be an essential part of the Celtics’ lineup. He averaged 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 46.1% from the field and 39.3% from beyond the arc. His consistent performance helped the Celtics maintain their competitive edge and secure a top seed in the playoffs.
White’s acquisition proved to be a critical move for the Celtics, adding depth and versatility that were vital during their playoff runs. His ability to step up in crucial moments and his steady presence on both ends of the floor played a significant role in Boston’s journey to capturing the 2024 NBA Championship.
June 22, 2023 – Trading Marcus Smart for Kristaps Porzingis
The Boston Celtics made a significant and surprising move on June 22, 2023, by trading Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of a three-team deal that brought Kristaps Porzingis to Boston. In this trade, the Celtics received Porzingis, the 25th overall pick in the 2023 draft, and a 2024 first-round pick from the Grizzlies. The Grizzlies acquired Marcus Smart, while the Wizards received Tyus Jones, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, and the 35th overall pick in the 2023 draft.
This trade marked the end of Smart’s nine-year tenure with the Celtics, during which he was known for his tenacious defense and leadership. However, the Celtics needed to balance their roster and add depth to their frontcourt. Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ President of Basketball Operations, emphasized the need to address their frontcourt depth and add versatility. Porzingis, with his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities, was an ideal fit.
Porzingis had a standout 2022-23 season with the Washington Wizards, averaging a career-high 23.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 49.8% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range. His offensive versatility and defensive presence were expected to complement the Celtics’ existing core of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
The acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis was a crucial move in Boston’s journey to the 2024 NBA Championship. His presence provided the Celtics with the necessary balance and depth, making them a formidable contender throughout the season.
July 8, 2023 – Re-signing Kristaps Porzingis
In a critical move to solidify their roster, the Boston Celtics re-signed Kristaps Porzingis on July 8, 2023, shortly after acquiring him in a trade. The Celtics extended Porzingis with a two-year, $60 million contract, ensuring his presence through the 2025-26 season. This decision underscored the team’s commitment to integrating Porzingis into their long-term plans.
Porzingis had a stellar season with the Celtics in 2023-24, averaging 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 51.6% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range. His versatility as a scorer and rim protector added significant value to the Celtics’ lineup, making him a key player in their successful campaign.
Porzingis’ performance in the playoffs was also impressive. He provided critical scoring and defense, helping the Celtics navigate tough matchups and ultimately secure their 18th NBA Championship. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and protect the rim defensively was instrumental in the team’s success.
The re-signing of Porzingis was part of a broader strategy by the Celtics to build a championship-caliber team around their core players, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. With Porzingis locked in, the Celtics ensured they had a formidable frontcourt presence to complement their dynamic wing players.
By extending Porzingis, the Celtics demonstrated their belief in his potential to contribute significantly to their championship aspirations. This move not only secured a key player for the immediate future but also reinforced the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive and well-rounded roster.
July 25, 2023 – Re-signing Jaylen Brown
In a bold move that showcased their commitment to building a championship contender, the Boston Celtics re-signed Jaylen Brown to a historic five-year, $286 million supermax contract on July 25, 2023. This contract, the richest in NBA history at the time, ensured that Brown would remain a key piece of the Celtics’ core through the 2028-29 season.
Brown earned this lucrative extension after being named to the All-NBA Second Team, making him eligible for the supermax deal. Averaging 24.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game during the 2022-23 season, Brown solidified himself as one of the league’s elite players and a vital component of the Celtics’ success.
During the 2023-24 season, Brown continued to be elite, averaging 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His outstanding performance in the regular season carried over into the playoffs, where he played a crucial role in the Celtics’ dominant run. Brown’s ability to score, defend, and lead on and off the court made him an invaluable asset as the Celtics pursued their championship aspirations.
Brown’s playoff heroics were particularly notable. He was named the Eastern Conference Finals MVP after leading the Celtics to a 4-0 sweep of the Indiana Pacers. Brown averaged 29.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in the series, showcasing his offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.
In the NBA Finals, Brown continued his stellar play, earning the Finals MVP award as the Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks in five games. His consistent scoring and leadership throughout the series were pivotal in securing Boston’s 18th NBA championship, justifying the substantial investment made in his supermax contract.
Re-signing Brown was a clear signal that the Celtics were fully committed to their current core of players. His partnership with Jayson Tatum formed one of the most formidable duos in the NBA, and this move was crucial for maintaining the team’s competitive edge. By locking in Brown with a supermax extension, the Celtics ensured stability and continuity, setting the stage for their eventual 2024 NBA Championship victory.
October 1, 2023 – The Bold Move: Trading for Jrue Holiday
In a significant roster upgrade, the Boston Celtics acquired Jrue Holiday from the Portland Trail Blazers on October 1, 2023. The Celtics traded Malcolm Brogdon, Robert Williams III, and two first-round picks (Golden State’s 2024 pick and Boston’s 2029 pick) to secure the two-time All-Star guard.
Holiday had just been traded to the Blazers as part of the Damian Lillard deal before being flipped to Boston. Known for his elite defense and playmaking skills, Holiday was seen as an ideal fit for the Celtics, bringing leadership and versatility to complement Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
During the 2023-24 season, Holiday averaged 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists over 69 games. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor made him an invaluable addition to the team, significantly boosting Boston’s championship aspirations.
Holiday’s playoff performance was outstanding. He played a crucial role in the Celtics’ deep playoff run, particularly in the Eastern Conference Finals where he averaged 18.5 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. His contributions were instrumental in the Celtics sweeping the Indiana Pacers and advancing to the NBA Finals. Against the Dallas Mavericks in the Finals, Holiday continued to provide strong defense and clutch performances, helping the Celtics win their 18th NBA Championship.
At the end of the regular season, the Celtics signed Holiday to a four-year, $135 million contract extension, ensuring his presence in Boston through the 2026-27 season, with a player option for the 2027-28 season. This extension highlighted the Celtics’ commitment to maintaining a strong core and pursuing future championships.
April 10, 2024 – Another Extension: Jrue Holiday Stays For The Long Run
In a crucial move to secure their defensive anchor, the Boston Celtics re-signed Jrue Holiday on April 10, 2024. Holiday agreed to a four-year, $135 million contract extension, keeping him in Boston through the 2027-28 season. This extension underscored the Celtics’ commitment to maintaining a strong core and solidifying their championship aspirations.
The extension not only secured Holiday’s defensive prowess and veteran leadership but also demonstrated the Celtics’ strategic foresight. By locking in Holiday with a long-term deal, the Celtics ensured that their core would remain strong and cohesive, setting the stage for continued success in the years to come.
Brad Stevens Is The Real MVP
Brad Stevens has been the driving force behind the Celtics’ rise to glory. Since moving from head coach to President of Basketball Operations in 2021, he’s orchestrated a series of key moves that transformed the team. Trading for Al Horford brought veteran leadership, while acquiring Derrick White added depth and versatility. Bringing in Kristaps Porzingis and re-signing Jaylen Brown solidified the core.
Stevens also made the bold decision to trade for Jrue Holiday, replacing Marcus Smart with another elite defender and playmaker. Each move showed his knack for balancing experienced players with emerging stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. His vision and ability to pull the right strings at the right time have been crucial in building a cohesive, competitive team.
Stevens’ influence extends beyond just player acquisitions. He’s fostered a winning culture, instilled a strong work ethic, and maintained a clear vision for the team’s future. His decisions off the court have directly impacted the Celtics’ success on it, proving that while players execute the game plan, it’s Stevens’ strategic genius that set the stage for the Celtics’ 2024 championship win. In many ways, Brad Stevens truly is the real MVP behind Boston’s latest triumph.
