How the Celtics could line up after Joe Mazzulla’s dream offseason with five blockbuster signings

How the Celtics Could Line Up After Joe Mazzulla’s Dream Offseason With Five Blockbuster Signings

The Boston Celtics head into the 2025 offseason with both championship ambition and a major roadblock. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has molded the Celtics into one of the NBA’s most formidable two-way squads, but Jayson Tatum’s devastating Achilles tear is expected to sideline him for the entire 2025–26 season. With their franchise star out, Boston must recalibrate its roadmap while keeping its title hopes alive.

Despite limited financial flexibility — Boston is deep into the second tax apron with nine players under guaranteed contracts — the front office is committed to strategic, value-driven roster building. Their offseason approach: identify low-cost veterans and international talent willing to take minimum deals and reinforce the core built around Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porziņģis.

Here’s how the Celtics could look after a dream summer of five impact signings.

1. Andre Drummond (Philadelphia 76ers) – Veteran Size and Rebounding

Now with the Philadelphia 76ers, Andre Drummond remains one of the most dominant rebounders per minute in the league. Although his role has become more specialized, his value as a backup center capable of protecting the paint and securing boards is still high.

With Al Horford aging and Porziņģis managing injuries, Drummond would bring muscle and veteran savvy to the Celtics’ frontcourt. Expected to be available on a minimum deal, he fits Boston’s financial parameters perfectly while providing postseason experience and toughness off the bench.

 

2. Kris Dunn (Los Angeles Clippers) – Defensive Specialist With New England Ties

Currently playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Kris Dunn has quietly carved out a role as a premier defensive guard and capable ball handler. The Providence College alum brings gritty defense, active hands, and a high basketball IQ — all traits that align with Mazzulla’s identity-driven system.

Dunn would offer valuable minutes behind Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, giving Boston a defensive bulldog to throw at opposing guards. His local roots and team-first mentality make him a natural cultural fit for the Celtics.

 

3. Alec Burks (Miami Heat) – Veteran Shooter and Playoff Scorer

A seasoned scorer and reliable shooter, Alec Burks contributed to the Miami Heat’s bench unit last season, particularly in big-game moments. Burks brings three-point shooting, secondary ball-handling, and versatility at both guard spots — all of which the Celtics need in the wake of Tatum’s absence.

He thrives in half-court sets and isn’t afraid of the moment, a valuable trait come playoff time. Boston could benefit greatly from his floor-spacing and poise under pressure, especially as they rework their offensive sets without their leading scorer.

 

4. Goga Bitadze (Orlando Magic) – Defensive Anchor With Upside

At 25 years old, Goga Bitadze continues to grow as a dependable rim protector and rotational big. With the Orlando Magic, he showcased shot-blocking instincts, smart positioning, and physicality in limited minutes — averaging 1.4 blocks in just 15 minutes per game.

For Boston, Bitadze could operate as a third big behind Porziņģis and Drummond while being groomed for a longer-term role. His defensive upside and ability to contribute without needing touches make him a low-risk, high-reward signing.

5. Kevin Punter (FC Barcelona, EuroLeague) – International Sharpshooter

Kevin Punter, currently playing for FC Barcelona, is among Europe’s elite scorers. A crafty combo guard with deep range and big-game experience, he has consistently delivered 15+ points per game in the EuroLeague. His previous stints with Partizan Belgrade, Virtus Bologna, and Crvena Zvezda only add to his résumé.

Punter’s offensive toolkit — particularly his perimeter shooting and off-the-dribble scoring — could inject instant offense into Boston’s second unit. While untested in the NBA, he’s one of the most polished international guards available and could thrive under Mazzulla’s structured system.

Jayson Tatum’s Achilles Injury Changes Everything

The biggest storyline for Boston this offseason isn’t about trades or new faces — it’s Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury. With the All-NBA forward expected to miss the entire 2025–26 season, the Celtics lose not only their leading scorer but also their primary playmaker and defensive anchor.

His absence shifts the spotlight to Jaylen Brown, who now steps into the role of offensive leader and emotional core. The five targeted additions aren’t just reinforcements — they’re essential pieces in Boston’s quest to stay in contention.

Projected 2025–26 Lineup (With Tatum Out)

Starters:

PG: Jrue Holiday

SG: Derrick White

SF: Jaylen Brown

PF: Al Horford

C: Kristaps Porziņģis

Bench Rotation:

Kris Dunn (PG/SG)

Alec Burks (SG/SF)

Kevin Punter (SG)

Sam Hauser (SF/PF)

Andre Drummond (C)

Goga Bitadze (C)

Payton Pritchard (PG)

 

Final Thoughts

This isn’t the offseason Boston envisioned, but it could still be the one that defines their resilience. With Jayson Tatum sidelined, the Celtics are forced to find new ways to win. Joe Mazzulla’s staff and the front office are banking on savvy, character-driven signings that can plug gaps, reinforce identity, and elevate the team around its remaining stars.

If they land Drummond, Dunn, Burks, Bitadze, and Punter, Boston will still boast a top-tier defense — and enough veteran presence and offensive depth to challenge for the Eastern Conference crown. It may not be a superteam, but it could become one of the NBA’s grittiest, smartest success stories of the season.