The Boston Celtics have officially unveiled their salary structure for the 2025-26 NBA season, revealing a total team payroll of $203.5 million. This figure underscores the franchise’s commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber roster while navigating the complexities of the league’s salary cap and luxury tax. With key player options and contract extensions in play, the Celtics’ financial strategy reflects both their immediate ambitions and long-term planning.
At the heart of the Celtics’ payroll is their core of superstar talent, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Tatum, who signed a supermax extension in 2023, will earn $47.1 million in the 2025-26 season, solidifying his place as one of the highest-paid players in the league. Brown, whose own supermax deal kicked in the previous season, is set to make $45.8 million, ensuring that the Celtics’ dynamic duo remains among the most expensive tandems in the NBA. The combined salaries of Tatum and Brown alone account for nearly half of the team’s total payroll, a testament to their indispensable roles in Boston’s championship aspirations.
Beyond the two All-Stars, the Celtics’ financial commitments reveal a carefully constructed roster designed to maximize contention. Kristaps Porziņģis, acquired in a blockbuster trade, will earn $30.1 million in the final year of his current contract, assuming he exercises his player option—a move that is widely expected. Porziņģis’ presence has been transformative for the Celtics, providing elite rim protection and floor-spacing, making his salary a justifiable expense. Meanwhile, Jrue Holiday, another key acquisition, is slated to make $27.5 million, with his veteran leadership and two-way prowess proving invaluable in high-stakes moments.
Derrick White, whose breakout performances have made him a fan favorite, will earn $21.5 million in the first year of a lucrative extension signed in 2024. White’s ability to contribute as a scorer, playmaker, and defender has made him an essential piece of the Celtics’ rotation, justifying the front office’s decision to lock him into a long-term deal. Al Horford, the ageless veteran, is set to make $10 million, a team-friendly figure given his continued impact on both ends of the floor. Horford’s willingness to take a reduced salary in pursuit of a championship has been a recurring theme in recent years, further endearing him to the organization and its fanbase.
The Celtics’ payroll also includes several younger players on cost-controlled contracts, providing much-needed financial flexibility. Payton Pritchard, who signed a team-friendly extension, will earn $7.5 million, while Sam Hauser’s $2.8 million salary represents excellent value for a sharpshooting wing. Rookie contract players like Jordan Walsh ($2.3 million) and JD Davison ($1.9 million) round out the roster, offering upside without significant cap ramifications.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Celtics’ salary breakdown is the presence of player options that could alter the team’s financial landscape. Porziņģis’ $30.1 million option is almost certain to be picked up, but other decisions loom large. Malcolm Brogdon, who has been a steady contributor off the bench, holds a $22.5 million player option. Given his age and injury history, Brogdon may opt in, though the Celtics could explore trade scenarios if they seek additional flexibility. Robert Williams III, whose $12.4 million salary is partially guaranteed, faces an uncertain future after battling injuries. If waived, the Celtics could save millions, but his defensive upside makes him a tantalizing—if risky—asset.
The Celtics’ $203.5 million payroll will almost certainly place them in luxury tax territory, a reality ownership has embraced in pursuit of banners. With repeater tax penalties potentially looming, the front office must weigh every financial decision carefully. The new collective bargaining agreement’s stricter penalties for high-spending teams add another layer of complexity, meaning Boston’s management must balance short-term aggression with long-term sustainability.
Looking ahead, the Celtics’ salary commitments will shape their ability to retain and acquire talent. Tatum and Brown’s escalating salaries will consume an even larger share of the cap in coming years, leaving little room for major additions outside of draft picks and minimum contracts. However, the team’s core is locked in through at least 2026, ensuring stability as they chase multiple championships.
In summary, the Boston Celtics’ 2025-26 payroll reflects a franchise all-in on winning. With over $200 million committed to a star-studded roster, the team is positioned to remain atop the Eastern Conference for years to come. Key player options and strategic contract extensions highlight the delicate balance between spending and flexibility, but for a team with championship aspirations, the financial sacrifices are a necessary cost of doing business. As the Celtics prepare for another title run, their salary structure tells the story of a team unwilling to settle for anything less than greatness.
