Trade rumors have intensified around Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday, with the Sacramento Kings emerging as a leading suitor. This development follows the Kings’ recent decision to trade away De’Aaron Fox, leaving a void at point guard that they hope Holiday can fill.
The Sacramento Kings, whose value stands at $3.7 billion according to Forbes, are motivated to strengthen their roster after parting ways with Fox via a trade to the San Antonio Spurs. Kings General Manager Scott Perry has reportedly admired Holiday since his tenure with the New York Knicks, making Holiday a prime target in ongoing trade discussions.
“Jrue Holiday is a veteran player the Sacramento Kings have interest in, sources said. Whether or not Holiday is made available in trade talks by Boston is the ultimate question,” Brett Siegel wrote for ClutchPoints.
—Brett Siegel, Sports Reporter
Following a disappointing playoff exit for the Celtics, who were ousted by the New York Knicks in the second round, Boston is considering trading Holiday to manage a projected payroll exceeding $500 million in the upcoming season. A proposed three-team deal involving the Celtics, Kings, and Atlanta Hawks aims to address this financial and roster challenge.
Under the proposed terms, the Kings would acquire Jrue Holiday, rookie Jordan Walsh, and a 2025 first-round selection (28th overall). In return, Boston would receive Malik Monk, Keon Ellis, Dominick Barlow, and a 2027 second-round draft pick. Meanwhile, the Hawks would absorb Jonas Valančiūnas and Sam Hauser as part of the transaction.
The Kings’ pursuit of Holiday reflects their readiness to contend immediately, though the move carries risks. At 34 years old, Holiday’s offensive contributions have diminished somewhat. Nonetheless, his veteran presence and championship experience could be strategic assets for Sacramento’s ambitions.
In the most recent season, Holiday’s averages stood at 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game with the Celtics. Financially, he is set to earn $32.4 million next season, with a remaining contract commitment valued at $104.4 million through 2027-28, according to Spotrac data.
League Officials Suggest Celtics Must Sweeten Trade Offer for Jrue Holiday
While the Celtics appear willing to trade Jrue Holiday, several league executives believe Boston may need to include additional incentives to close a deal. NBA insider Jake Fischer reports that draft pick compensation could be necessary to attract a team willing to take on Holiday’s contract.
Fischer further explained that trading Holiday could help Boston better manage the luxury tax, potentially moving their payroll below the second apron threshold. These financial considerations are an important factor in the Celtics’ incentive to explore trade options involving Holiday.
The Celtics’ second-round elimination by the Knicks adds pressure to retool their lineup, increasing the likelihood of such a trade materializing in the near future.