Celtics Shake Up Roster at Deadline, Still Dominate Rockets in Statement Win
The Boston Celtics didn’t just make noise at the trade deadline - they made a statement on the court, too.
With the NBA trade deadline officially behind us, the Celtics were among the busiest teams in the league, executing several moves that reshaped the back end of their roster. Boston sent forward Josh Minott to the Brooklyn Nets and big man Chris Boucher to the Utah Jazz. They also moved Xavier Tillman Sr. to the Charlotte Hornets, trimming salary and creating roster flexibility in the process.
But even with a shorthanded lineup and a flurry of roster changes, Boston didn’t miss a beat on the court. In fact, they might’ve delivered their most complete performance of the season - a dominant 114-93 road win over the Houston Rockets.
Derrick White Steps Up - Again
With Jayson Tatum sidelined and several rotation players unavailable, Derrick White took control. The veteran guard poured in 28 points, showcasing the kind of poise and leadership that’s become his trademark in Boston. He was aggressive from the jump, attacking Houston’s defense off the dribble, knocking down threes, and orchestrating the offense with surgical precision.
White’s performance wasn’t just about scoring - it was about setting the tone. In a game where the Celtics could’ve easily let the trade deadline chaos become a distraction, he made sure they stayed locked in.
Ron Harper Jr. Makes the Most of His Moment
One of the more unexpected storylines of the night was Ron Harper Jr. getting the start - and making it count. Thrust into action due to the Celtics’ depleted lineup, Harper showed off his basketball IQ and feel for the game, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike. His contributions didn’t light up the box score, but his presence was steady, and he played within himself.
Joe Mazzulla’s decision to trust Harper in a big spot paid off - a reminder that Boston’s depth runs deeper than just the names on the marquee.
Neemias Queta Makes His Case
Another standout? Neemias Queta.
With the frontcourt rotation in flux following the trades of Boucher and Tillman, Queta seized the opportunity and delivered what many are calling his best performance in a Celtics uniform. He protected the rim, battled on the boards, and brought a physical presence that Boston will need moving forward - especially in the absence of Kristaps Porziņģis and with Nikola Vucevic still integrating into the system.
If Queta keeps playing like this, he’ll force Mazzulla to think twice about who gets the nod at center.
Roster Moves: What the Trades Mean
The trades themselves weren’t blockbusters, but they were calculated. By moving Minott, Boucher, and Tillman, the Celtics cleared some salary, opened up a roster spot, and gave themselves more flexibility heading into the stretch run. It’s the kind of fine-tuning you expect from a team with championship aspirations.
They didn’t just subtract, either. Boston converted two-way center Amari Williams to a standard two-year contract, rewarding his development and signaling confidence in his potential. It’s a smart internal promotion that gives the Celtics another young big to work with as they navigate the remainder of the regular season and beyond.
And of course, the Nikola Vucevic trade looms large. While he didn’t suit up against the Rockets, his presence will be felt soon enough. The veteran center brings playoff experience, offensive versatility, and another dimension to Boston’s frontcourt - especially as they await the return of Tatum and Porziņģis.
Celtics Stay Locked In
Despite the swirling trade rumors, last-minute deals, and a depleted roster, the Celtics walked into Houston and put on a clinic. They controlled the tempo, won the battle on the boards, and held the Rockets to just 93 points - a testament to their defensive identity and team-first mentality.
This wasn’t just a win. It was a message.
Even with roster turnover, even without their stars, the Celtics are still a force. The pieces may shift, but the culture - and the expectations - remain the same.
And if this performance is any indication, Boston isn’t just surviving the trade deadline - they’re thriving through it.