Celtics Finalize Roster Changes with Strategic Trade

The Boston Celtics have executed a series of roster adjustments, trading forward Georges Niang and a pair of second-round draft choices to the Utah Jazz in exchange for rookie RJ Luis Jr., international news sources have confirmed.

Reports indicate that this transaction will aid Boston in optimizing their tax situation and free up a roster spot, as Luis is slated to a two-way contract.

His agent confirmed that this agreement also makes room for the Celtics to sign veteran forward Chris Boucher to a one-year contract valued at USD 3.3 million. Boucher is expected to contribute valuable experience and energy from the bench.

During his time with the Toronto Raptors last season, Boucher recorded an average of 10 points and 4.5 rebounds in approximately 17.2 minutes per game.

Throughout his 407-game professional career, with 406 games played for the Raptors and one for Golden State, Boucher has averaged 8.9 points and 5.1 rebounds.

Niang, also 32, did not play for the Celtics despite being acquired from the Atlanta Hawks via a three-team trade the previous month.

The Massachusetts native achieved a career-high average of 9.9 points and 3.4 rebounds last season, playing for both Cleveland and Atlanta.

Known as a reliable shooter, Niang has posted career averages of 7.4 points and 2.5 rebounds across 544 games, while maintaining a 39.9 percent shooting accuracy from beyond the three-point line. He previously spent four seasons with the Jazz from 2017 to 2021.

RJ Luis Jr., aged 22, was not selected in the June draft and was sidelined from the Summer League due to a knee injury.

He excelled at St. John’s last season, earning Big East Player of the Year honors and being named an AP second-team All-American after transferring from UMass.