As the Boston Celtics continue their quest for back-to-back titles in 2025, this summer will present itself with its own challenges for Boston.
Besides having to find new ownership for the team, there will be tough decisions made by the front office when it comes to handling this Celtics roster, whether this season ends with a championship or not.
Setting themselves up for success, the Celtics have their stars Tatum, Brown, White, Porzingis, Holiday and Pritchard under contract for next season.
But one Celtics fan favorite will be a free-agent at season's end, as his improved play this season could leave Brad Stevens in a bind when the offseason arrives.
Celtics News: Kornets' Strong Play Could Lead to Tough Offseason Decision
Celtics center Luke Kornet has been a pivotal piece of the bench squad since he arrived in the 2022 season. His ability as a reliable presence in the paint has been a huge win for Boston, given the contract he is on. Kornet is making $2.8 million this season according to Spotrac.
The 8-year NBA veteran has changed his playstyle throughout his career. During his first three seasons with the New York Knicks, Kornet was attempting around 3.5 three-pointers per game. As this number has dropped throughout his career, Kornet has only attempted a single 3-point shot this season.
Instead, Kornet poses value elsewhere for Boston, whether it's conducting pick-and-rolls, rebounding or contesting shots at the rim. Given how many shooting threats Boston has, Kornet doesn't need to be outside the arc to reach his full potential.
Luke Kornet in a 5-slot offense has been quite fun to watch this year.
— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 3, 2025
A great example how a player can help the offensive flow in space even if he doesn't shot threes.
Spacing ≠ Shooting. pic.twitter.com/bicCMkZilV
This season, Kornet is averaging 5.2 points, 4.9 rebounds and a block per game across 17.5 minutes per game for Boston. Due to the Celtics being cautious with Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford finally showing his age, Kornet has been averaging the most minutes per game of his career this season, certainly making the most out of them.
Alongside Kornet, Al Horford and Torrey Craig are set to become free agents after this season. As mentioned before, Porzingis has a long injury history and Horford is approaching his 39th birthday in June. Bringing Kornet back should be a priority if Boston can make the money work this offseason.
Kornet's performance throughout the season could have him asking for a heftier contract in the offseason, or he could stick around on a smaller deal with Boston to compete for more championships.
The Celtics also have center Neemias Queta under contract for next season, as the 25-year-old hasn't been able to find his footing in the Celtics rotation over the past two seasons.
For now, the Celtics sit at 43-18, second in the Eastern Conference. In the midst of a 7-game homestand, Boston will see the Lakers and Thunder come to town in two intriguing matchups.