Full Breakdown
Boston Celtics Finalize Roster Ahead of 2025-26 NBA Season
10/17/2025, 3:13:42 PM
Roster Changes and Player Waivers
As the Boston Celtics prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season, significant roster adjustments have taken place. On Thursday, the team waived three players: Wendell Moore Jr., Kendall Brown, and Jalen Bridges. This decision follows the conclusion of their preseason activities, which included a 110-108 victory over the Toronto Raptors. The waiving of these players is a common practice as teams transition from training camp rosters, which can include up to 21 players, to the regular season limit of 15.
Wendell Moore Jr., a former first-round pick (26th overall) from Duke in 2022, averaged 3.5 points and 1.5 assists in two preseason games. Kendall Brown, drafted 48th overall in 2022, and Jalen Bridges, who went undrafted in 2024, both averaged 2.3 points in their respective preseason appearances. The Celtics are expected to retain these players within their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, allowing them to continue their development.
New Additions to the Roster
In conjunction with these waivers, the Celtics signed Ron Harper Jr. to a two-way contract. Harper, who previously played for the Maine Celtics and had a brief stint with the Detroit Pistons, impressed during the preseason, averaging 4.3 points per game while shooting 42.9% from three-point range. His signing fills the roster spot created by the release of RJ Luis Jr., who was acquired from the Utah Jazz earlier this offseason but struggled to secure a place on the team.
Luis, a standout at St. John's and the Big East Player of the Year, averaged just two points in three preseason games before being waived. His departure reflects the competitive nature of securing a roster spot in the NBA, particularly for undrafted players.
Official Statements & Responses
The Celtics' management has expressed confidence in their roster decisions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining flexibility under the salary cap while developing young talent. The team is now focused on its core players, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White, as they prepare for their season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 22.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Celtics' moves have been largely seen as strategic, some analysts question the decision to waive players like Moore, who was once highly regarded as a top recruit. Critics argue that with proper development, he could still contribute significantly to an NBA team. The competitive landscape of the league often leads to difficult choices, and the Celtics' approach reflects a broader trend of prioritizing immediate roster needs over potential long-term gains.
What's Next
As the Celtics gear up for the regular season, they will look to solidify their lineup and address any remaining gaps. The upcoming game against the 76ers will be a critical test of their preparations and roster decisions. The team's performance in the early part of the season will be closely monitored, especially given the mixed expectations surrounding their current roster composition.
