The Boston Celtics were forced to make several roster moves this summer to avoid what could have been record luxury tan penalties placed on the franchise. Brad Stevens admitted as much when meeting with the media on Tuesday.
Of last season's regular rotation players, Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Luke Kornet are no longer on the roster and there is a strong chance that veteran center Al Horford joins that list sooner rather than later.
Given how successful they were during their time in Boston, it shouldn't come as a major surprise to any Celtics fan to hear that one of their departed veterans has already established himself as a fan favorite in his new city.
Former Celtic Luke Kornet Already Becoming Fan Favorite on the Spurs
Despite making an offer to keep him in Boston moving forward, veteran big man Luke Kornet decided to say goodbye to the Celtics and continue his career as a member of the San Antonio Spurs on a four-year, $41 million deal.
While he has only been in San Antonio for a short time, Kornet has already figured out the right way to address the fan base and he did just that by providing the perfect response to a question concerning why he chose the No. 7 for his jersey rather than sticking with the No. 40 he wore in Boston.
Newest #Spurs big man Luke Kornet cracks that he chose #7 because he wants to be a third of the player Tim Duncan was.
— Nate Ryan (@nateryansports) July 7, 2025
Added that he loves multiples & factors. pic.twitter.com/ygvu93g2nE
Any reference to the Spurs' historic trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, or Manu Ginobili will be a hit among fans in San Antonio, and Kornet has figured that out. If the former Vanderbilt University standout can show that his ability to produce on the hardwood is as strong as his media training, then the Spurs are in for a real treat.
Kornet is set to serve as the primary backup to former No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama, and, given the fact the French big man is dealing with blood clots at such an early age, the former Celtics big provides San Antonio with some added insurance in case Wembanyama is forced to miss time again, as was the case to close the 2024-25 regular season.
After averaging 6.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.0 blocked shots in just over 18 minutes per game, Kornet now has the opportunity to show off exactly what he is worth to the rest of the NBA.