Full Breakdown
Boston Celtics Sign Jalen Bridges and Kendall Brown Ahead of Training Camp
9/20/2025, 1:30:09 PM
New Additions to the Roster
The Boston Celtics have signed forward Jalen Bridges and wing Kendall Brown to training camp deals as they prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season. Both players will compete for two-way contracts, which allow them to split time between the NBA and the G League. This move comes as the Celtics look to bolster their roster following significant changes, including the absence of Jayson Tatum due to a torn Achilles.
Bridges, a 6-foot-8 forward, previously played for the Phoenix Suns, where he had limited NBA exposure, appearing in just eight games and averaging 1.1 points. However, he showcased his potential in the G League, averaging 14.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game while shooting 38.6% from three-point range. His performance in the G League's Tip-Off Tournament further highlighted his scoring ability, as he averaged 16.2 points with a shooting percentage of 39.7% from beyond the arc.
Brown, also 6-foot-8, has had a more tumultuous journey in the NBA. Drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves and traded to the Indiana Pacers, he has struggled to find consistent playing time, appearing in only 21 NBA games over three seasons. Last season, he played for the Long Island Nets in the G League, where he averaged 15.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, shooting 37.7% from three-point range.
Context of the Signings
The Celtics' offseason has been marked by significant roster changes, including the trades of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. With Tatum sidelined, the team is in a transitional phase, focusing on evaluating talent and building depth. General Manager Brad Stevens and Head Coach Joe Mazzulla are tasked with navigating this period while preparing for future postseason aspirations.
Bridges and Brown join a roster that already includes RJ Luis Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams, who are all on two-way contracts. This competitive environment means that both Bridges and Brown will need to demonstrate their skills during training camp to secure a spot.
Official Statements & Responses
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported the signings, emphasizing that both players will be vying for two-way contracts. The Celtics' management appears committed to exploring all options to enhance their roster depth as they adapt to the loss of key players.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts have expressed skepticism regarding the Celtics' offseason moves, questioning the overall direction of the team. The loss of Tatum and the departure of established players like Holiday and Porzingis have raised concerns about the team's competitiveness in the upcoming season.
What's Next
As training camp approaches, the Celtics will evaluate Bridges and Brown's performances closely. Their ability to secure two-way contracts could significantly impact their careers, especially for Brown, who may face limited opportunities in the NBA moving forward.
In summary, the Boston Celtics are actively reshaping their roster with the addition of Jalen Bridges and Kendall Brown, both of whom will compete for crucial two-way contracts as the team prepares for the challenges of the 2025-26 season.
