Luke Kornet has officially left the Boston Celtics to join the San Antonio Spurs after signing a four-year deal worth $41 million, marking a significant milestone in his career. This move has drawn praise from his former teammates, including Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who publicly celebrated Kornet’s success.
Positive Send-Off from Boston Teammates
Despite Kornet’s exit, the sentiments from his time with the Celtics remain warm and supportive. Jayson Tatum shared an ESPN announcement of the signing on social media with a simple yet meaningful message:
“Much deserved.”
—Jayson Tatum. This reflects the respect Kornet earned during his three-plus seasons with Boston, where he became an admired teammate and fan favorite.
Kornet’s NBA Journey and Growth
Kornet’s path in the NBA highlights determination and steady improvement. He began his career in 2017 on a two-way contract with the New York Knicks and had never signed a deal above $4.5 million until now. Last season, Kornet appeared in a career-high 73 games, averaging 6.0 points and 5.3 rebounds, while shooting an impressive 66.8%. Beyond his scoring, he proved to be a strong defensive presence, helping the Celtics on both ends of the court.
Celtics Player Development Director Reflects on Kornet’s Impact
Craig Luschenat, the Celtics’ director of player development, also shared kind words about Kornet’s time in Boston. On social media platform X, Luschenat wrote,
“Been an unbelievable 4 years together,
”
and added,
“Going to be missed, but very well deserved!!”
—Craig Luschenat These comments underscore Kornet’s influence inside the locker room and the lasting impression he left on the organization.
What’s Next for the Celtics’ Frontcourt?
With Kornet’s departure, the Celtics will have to adjust their frontcourt rotation. Players like Neemias Queta, Xavier Tillman, and recent addition Luka Garza are expected to take on larger roles as Boston seeks to fill the void. The team now faces the task of developing these players to maintain depth and strength in the paint.
A Milestone Moment for Kornet and Boston
Kornet’s new contract celebrates the hard work and progress he has made throughout his NBA career. While the Celtics bid farewell to a respected teammate and a fan favorite, they also look ahead with optimism about their evolving roster. At the same time, Kornet’s journey exemplifies perseverance and dedication, serving as an inspiring example for others aiming to succeed at the highest level.