Celtics’ bold salary dump opens door for a rising star

The Boston Celtics needed to clear cap space ahead of the upcoming NBA season – and they’ve done it with precision. First, they offloaded Jrue Holiday and the $32.4 million he was due in 2025 to the Portland Trail Blazers. Then came Kristaps Porziņģis, whose $30.7 million salary for the next season was also shipped out, this time in exchange for Georges Niang.

Who is R.J. Luis Jr?

Niang’s stay, however, lasted less than a month. He was traded today to the Utah Jazz in return for rookie R.J. Luis Jr. and two future second-round draft picks. The deal will become official tomorrow, as rookies cannot be traded before August 6.

Niang had been set to earn $8.2 million in 2025-26, while Luis Jr. – who is of Dominican and Ecuadorian descent – held a two-way contract with the Jazz. These types of deals typically come in at less than half the rookie minimum salary, giving the Celtics a significant financial reset.

Luis Jr., son of Dominican Reggie Charles and Ecuadorian Verónica Luis, played college basketball with the St. John’s Red Storm for the last two years of his NCAA eligibility, following a season with the UMass Minutemen. His final college campaign was a breakout – he was named Big East Player of the Year and earned a spot on the All-Big East First Team after averaging 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists. He was also named to the Second-Team All-American roster.

What will R.J. Luis Jr.’s role be with the Boston Celtics?

The Miami-born 22-year-old missed the NBA Summer League due to a left knee injury, which may also limit his availability for the Celtics’ fall training camp. Still, thanks to his two-way contract, Luis Jr. could earn a spot with the Maine Celtics, Boston’s G League affiliate, where he can continue to hone his skills in the NBA’s developmental circuit.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.