Celtics, Hawks, and Nets Engage in Blockbuster Three-Team Trade

In a significant transaction completed on Tuesday, the Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, and Brooklyn Nets orchestrated a notable three-team trade. This deal, finalized just before the NBA Draft, saw Kristaps Porziņgis head to Atlanta, generating considerable buzz across the league.

Boston traded Porziņgis, in addition to a second-round draft selection, to the Atlanta Hawks. In exchange, the Celtics acquired Georges Niang along with two second-round picks, one of which is Cleveland’s 2031 pick. Boston also parted ways with their least favorable 2026 second-round pick.

The Brooklyn Nets, on the other hand, obtained guard Terance Mann and Atlanta’s No. 22 overall pick in the upcoming draft.

This acquisition bolsters Brooklyn’s draft arsenal to five first-round selections in Wednesday’s NBA Draft: Nos. eight, 19, 22, 26, and 27.

The Nets utilized their available salary cap space to absorb Mann’s USD 15.5 million salary. However, the formal completion of the trade is contingent upon the commencement of the new league year on July 6.

This deal represents Boston’s second major trade inside a day. Earlier, on Monday night, the Celtics dispatched Jrue Holiday to Portland, receiving Anfernee Simons and two second-round picks in return.

Collectively, these two trades are anticipated to yield savings of approximately USD 180 million in luxury tax penalties for the Celtics, positioning them favorably below the second tax apron and affording them enhanced financial maneuverability.

With Jayson Tatum in recovery from an Achilles injury and an imminent change in ownership, Boston appears to be prioritizing long-term roster construction and fiscal planning.

For Atlanta, the acquisition of Porziņgis furnishes immediate offensive capabilities in the frontcourt. Last season, he averaged in excess of 19 points and registered a career-best 41.2 percent shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. His expiring USD 30 million contract provides flexibility as the Hawks evaluate Trae Young’s future trajectory with the team.