As of February 20, 2025, there have been notable movements involving former Boston Celtics players joining Eastern Conference rivals, particularly the Milwaukee Bucks, who are considered one of Boston’s primary competitors for the NBA title.
Jae Crowder’s Journey
Jae Crowder, a versatile forward known for his defensive prowess and three-point shooting, has had a dynamic career since his tenure with the Celtics from 2014 to 2017. After stints with multiple teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, and Phoenix Suns, Crowder was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in February 2023. He re-signed with the Bucks in July 2023, contributing significantly to their defensive schemes and perimeter shooting. However, in November 2024, Crowder signed with the Sacramento Kings, moving to the Western Conference.
Danilo Gallinari’s Recent Moves
Danilo Gallinari, an experienced forward with a reputation for scoring and floor spacing, was part of the Celtics’ roster during the 2022–2023 season. In June 2023, he was traded to the Washington Wizards in a three-team deal. His time with the Wizards was short-lived, as he was subsequently traded to the Detroit Pistons in January 2024 and waived in February 2024. Shortly thereafter, Gallinari signed with the Milwaukee Bucks on February 21, 2024, aiming to bolster their frontcourt depth and offensive capabilities. His tenure with the Bucks lasted until January 2025, when he signed with the Vaqueros de Bayamón in Puerto Rico.
Patrick Beverley’s Acquisition
In a strategic move to enhance their perimeter defense, the Milwaukee Bucks acquired veteran guard Patrick Beverley from the Philadelphia 76ers just before the trade deadline on February 8, 2024. Beverley, known for his tenacious defense and playoff experience, reunited with Bucks coach Doc Rivers, under whom he played during his tenure with the LA Clippers. This acquisition was part of the Bucks’ efforts to address defensive challenges and strengthen their backcourt depth.
Implications for the Celtics
The movement of these seasoned players to the Bucks underscores Milwaukee’s commitment to assembling a roster capable of contending with top-tier teams like the Celtics. The addition of defensive specialists and versatile scorers enhances the Bucks’ strategic depth, potentially intensifying the rivalry between Boston and Milwaukee in the Eastern Conference. For the Celtics, these developments highlight the necessity of continuous assessment and adaptation of their roster and strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
As the season progresses, the performances of these former Celtics in their new roles will be pivotal in shaping the dynamics of the Eastern Conference playoff race. Both teams are likely to encounter each other in critical matchups, where the contributions of these players could significantly influence the outcomes.
In conclusion, the strategic acquisitions by the Milwaukee Bucks, involving former Celtics players, reflect a broader trend of Eastern Conference teams bolstering their rosters to challenge for supremacy. These moves not only impact team dynamics but also add layers of intrigue to the Celtics-Bucks rivalry, promising exciting and competitive encounters in the quest for the NBA title.
