Celtics Waive JD Davison Despite MVP Season to Cut Costs 

JD Davison finally got his NBA shot after three seasons in the G-League, earning a two-year standard contract with the Boston Celtics in April. His deal came just two weeks after being named the 2024-25 G-League MVP, averaging 25.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists with Maine. But on Thursday, the Celtics waived Davison to get under the NBA’s second-apron threshold, highlighting the harsh financial realities teams face. 

Despite Davison’s hard-earned progress, Boston’s recent restructuring made him the odd man out. The Celtics have already traded Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday to reduce their luxury tax burden. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss the entire season due to a torn Achilles, the front office saw little reason to carry a large payroll for a team unlikely to contend. Davison’s situation is a reminder of how quickly things can change in the NBA.