As the 2025 NBA offseason ramps up, all eyes are on Boston—and for good reason. The Celtics may have just fallen short of a championship run, but the front office isn’t standing still. With salary pressures mounting and strategic retooling in focus, Boston is expected to be active in trade discussions—and it seems the Houston Rockets are waiting by the phone.
According to The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, the Rockets are “anticipating conversations” with the Celtics this summer. That expectation isn’t coming from nowhere. With Boston facing a potential roster reshuffle, and Houston aiming to make the leap from playoff threat to title contender, both sides may find common ground in a blockbuster deal.
The Rockets finished 52–30 this season under the steady leadership of Ime Udoka, the former Celtics head coach. Their growth was one of the league’s surprise stories, but a tough seven-game loss to the Warriors in the first round exposed one key weakness: offense. While the defense and hustle were there, Houston lacked firepower when it mattered most.
Enter Boston.
The Celtics have elite talent—Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porziņģis—but they’re facing major salary cap decisions. Offloading one of their stars or a key role player could open up space while returning valuable assets. Houston, loaded with young talent and draft picks, may be the perfect trade partner.
There’s also buzz that the Rockets are eyeing Giannis Antetokounmpo. But while that may be a longer shot, Boston’s proven stars are more immediately available—and possibly more realistic. A trade involving Boston could help the Rockets boost their scoring output and balance out a young, athletic roster.
What’s clear is that both franchises are at critical crossroads. Boston needs to preserve its championship window without imploding financially. Houston wants to shift from a playoff cameo to serious contention.
As trade season approaches, don’t be surprised if the Celtics and Rockets headline the summer’s biggest NBA move.
Stay tuned—this offseason could reshape the league.
