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3-Time All-Star Emerges as Potential Jayson Tatum Replacement for Celtics
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- 3-Time All-Star Emerges as Potential Jayson Tatum Replacement for Celtics
Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
A three-time All-Star who could soon be available may be a cheap option for the Boston Celtics to help replace Jayson Tatum next season.
The Celtics will look very different next season. After spending big money in an attempt to try and win a second straight championship, the team was forced to slash payroll this summer. Gone are Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis after being traded in June. Also, fan-favorite Al Horford is not expected to re-sign in free agency.
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Yet, they won't be the biggest changes in 2025-26. After suffering an Achilles tear in the semifinals of the NBA playoffs, top star Jayson Tatum is expected to miss most if not all of next season. His absence creates a huge hole to fill. But Boston does not have the money to add a player who comes close to filling the stats void.
It will take a team effort to make up for Tatum's loss. And the Celtics will look to do it at a discount. A proven player who fits that strategy well could soon be up for grabs.
"Multiple contending teams are monitoring Khris Middleton 's future with the Wizards," Forbes NBA reporter Evan Sidery claimed this week. "On a $33.3 million expiring contract, plus an extensive injury history, teams are not willing to offer notable compensation in a trade. Middleton is a strong buyout candidate at some point."
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The former Milwaukee Bucks star has gone into a steep production decline since his last All-Star season in 2021-22. Much of it is due to injuries. However, at 33, there are still teams around the game that feel he can be a different maker.
Khris Middleton stats (2024-25): 10.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 28% 3PT
If he is looking to land one more solid contract, getting a notable playing time on a well-coached Celtics team would make sense. He could flourish under head coach Joe Mazzulla and boost his value for a return to free agency next summer.
If he is willing to sign with Boston for a very team-friendly price, he would help fill some of the scoring, rebounding, and assists void left by Tatum. He has championship-level experience. And when healthy, is a high-level three-point shooter that fits right into the Cs' style of play.
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