Celtics Roster Moves: A Strategic Play
The Boston Celtics are making savvy roster adjustments, moving John Tonje from a two-way contract to a 10-day deal. This move, confirmed by agents George Roussakis and Mark Bartelstein, helps Boston meet the league's roster minimum requirements. Additionally, the Celtics are bringing in Dalano Banton on a separate 10-day contract, boosting their roster to 14 players after operating with 12 since the trade deadline.
Tonje, picked 53rd in the 2025 draft, was a strategic acquisition due to his cap-friendly status. As a draft-rights rookie, his contract counts at the rookie minimum, crucial for a Celtics team working to stay just under the luxury tax threshold. While Tonje has yet to debut in the NBA, he's shown promise in the G League, notably scoring 50 points in his first two games with the Maine Celtics.
Looking ahead, Boston plans to revert to a 12-man roster after these 10-day contracts expire, with intentions to promote Max Shulga and potentially add a seasoned veteran later in the season.
76ers Add Depth with Tyrese Martin
The Philadelphia 76ers have bolstered their lineup by signing Tyrese Martin to a two-way contract. Martin, who started the season with the Nets, brings experience from 97 games over two seasons, where he averaged 8.2 points in just over 20 minutes per game.
Martin fills an open two-way slot alongside MarJon Beauchamp and Dalen Terry. If the deal is finalized by midweek, Martin could be eligible to participate in up to 16 games for the remainder of the season, providing the 76ers with additional depth and versatility.
Hawks Solidify Roster with Caleb Houstan
The Atlanta Hawks have made a strategic roster change by converting Caleb Houstan from a two-way contract to a standard, rest-of-season deal. To make room, the Hawks waived Nikola Djurisic, a 2024 second-round pick who hadn't yet played in the NBA. With only the first year of Djurisic’s contract guaranteed, Atlanta avoids future financial obligations.
Houstan, while not heavily featured in the NBA this season, has impressed in the G League, averaging 15.9 points and shooting over 37% from three-point range. The Hawks seem poised to give Houstan a more significant role as they assess their options over the next two months.