The Celtics do not have the salary or desire to chase big names in free agency. Stevens has to cut costs and field a cheaper but competitive roster next season without Jayson Tatum.

Instead of being forced to deal players already on the roster for whatever further goals the team may have, Boston now has two newcomers who still have some value, putting the team in a more flexible position moving forward as Stevens and the Celtics organization seem to value over all in the short term.

The Boston Celtics recalibrate their title-chasing core in 2025, using new financial breathing room and young talent to reshape their future.

Boston Celtics center Luke Kornet, center, hangs onto a rebound against Utah Jazz forwards Kyle Filipowski, left, and Brice Sensabaugh, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, March 10, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) AP

According to a league source, Kornet has agreed to a four-year, $41 million in San Antonio. Another Celtics big man, Al Horford, was said to be mulling over offers. The Celtics did add a center in free agent Luka Garza,

Boston Celtics player Luke Kornet will be headed to the San Antonio Spurs after agreeing to a four-year $41 million contract, reports say.