Jayson Tatum Sends Farewell Message to Kristaps Porzingis After Celtics Trade

The Boston Celtics have traded Kristaps Porzingis and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Georges Niang and a second-round pick. The Brooklyn Nets also participated in the deal, acquiring Terance Mann and the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

This move concludes Porzingis' two-year tenure with the Celtics, which began when he was acquired from the Washington Wizards in a three-team trade involving Marcus Smart's departure to Memphis. During his 99 regular-season games with Boston, Porzingis averaged 19.8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game while shooting 50.2% from the field, 39.2% from three-point range, and 83.8% on free throws.

Despite underperforming in the 2025 postseason, Porzingis delivered memorable moments—most notably in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals—and made an undeniable offensive impact. His departure follows the Celtics' 2024 championship victory over the Dallas Mavericks, which validated Boston's initial acquisition of him.

Jayson Tatum publicly bid farewell via Instagram, posting a photo of them celebrating the 2024 title with the caption: "Big fella! Never a doubt what you meant to this city and this team! thankful for you always champ! 🦄🦄🦄" The trade marks a challenging transition for Tatum and the Celtics after their successful championship campaign.