The Boston Celtics head into the 2024-25 season aiming to defend their title, keeping their core intact while adding new talent to strengthen the roster.
Fresh off winning their 18th NBA championship, the Celtics solidified their place as the most successful franchise in NBA history. They dominated the 2023-24 season with a 64-18 record and an impressive 16-3 playoff run. The team’s balance of offense and defense resulted in the fourth-highest net rating of all time, ranking first in offensive efficiency and second in defense.
With their core players returning and strategic offseason moves, the Celtics are in a strong position to compete for another title. Here’s a look at their projected starting lineup and key reserves for the upcoming season.
Point Guard (PG)
**Starter**: Jrue Holiday
**Reserves**: Payton Pritchard, JD Davison, Jay Scrubb
Jrue Holiday, a critical part of the Celtics’ championship run, continues to prove his value as one of the NBA’s top two-way players. His contributions on both ends were key last season, with averages of 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. His strong defense and playmaking abilities earned him a four-year, $135 million extension. Payton Pritchard remains a key reserve, offering shooting and energy off the bench, with JD Davison and Jay Scrubb providing depth.
Shooting Guard (SG)
**Starter**: Derrick White
**Reserves**: B. Scheierman, Jaden Springer, Ron Harper Jr.
Derrick White’s transformation into a top-tier “3-and-D” player has been instrumental to Boston’s success. He posted 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, alongside excellent defense, earning a four-year, $125 million extension. B. Scheierman, Jaden Springer, and Ron Harper Jr. will compete for minutes, adding depth and potential to the position.
Small Forward (SF)
**Starter**: Jaylen Brown
**Reserves**: Sam Hauser, Lonnie Walker, Anton Watson
Jaylen Brown, the Finals MVP, has established himself as one of the league’s best wings. Averaging 23.0 points and 5.5 rebounds, Brown’s two-way ability was crucial to the Celtics’ title win. Sam Hauser adds shooting off the bench, while Lonnie Walker and Anton Watson provide depth and versatility.
Power Forward (PF)
**Starter**: Jayson Tatum
**Reserves**: Xavier Tillman, Jordan Walsh, Drew Peterson, Tristan Enaruna
Jayson Tatum continues to lead the Celtics, following another standout season with 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. After securing a historic five-year, $315 million contract, Tatum will once again be the focal point of Boston’s offense. Backup support comes from veterans like Xavier Tillman and young prospects Jordan Walsh, Drew Peterson, and Tristan Enaruna.
Center (C)
**Starter**: Al Horford
**Reserves**: Luke Kornet, Neemias Queta, D. Skapintsev, Kristaps Porzingis (Injured)
With Kristaps Porzingis sidelined to start the season, Al Horford, despite being 38, will assume the starting center role. Horford’s leadership, defense, and floor-spacing ability remain invaluable. Porzingis, once healthy, will offer a major offensive boost with his scoring versatility. In the meantime, Luke Kornet, Neemias Queta, and D. Skapintsev will provide depth at the position.
Overall, the Celtics are well-prepared for another deep playoff run with a roster packed with talent, balance, and experience. Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown form a formidable lineup, while the return of Kristaps Porzingis will only enhance the team’s championship aspirations.
