BREAKING: Boston Celtics Release 3-Year NBA Player in Surprise Roster Move Ahead of Training Camp to Create Flexibility

In a surprising move that sent ripples through the NBA community, the Boston Celtics have officially released third-year NBA player JD Davison, parting ways with the promising young guard ahead of the 2025 training camp. The decision, first reported by league sources early Thursday morning, was later confirmed by the team in an official statement released via social media and the franchise’s website.

The release comes as the Celtics continue reshaping their roster following their 2024 NBA championship run and amid their efforts to stay flexible under the new collective bargaining agreement’s luxury tax rules. For Davison, a former second-round pick in 2022 who had spent most of his time developing with the Maine Celtics (Boston’s G League affiliate), the move marks a pivotal moment in his young career.

Why the Celtics Made the Move

Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens addressed the decision during a brief media availability, noting that while Davison had shown promise in flashes, the team had to prioritize roster flexibility and long-term salary cap health.

“JD is a great young man and a hardworking player,” Stevens said. “We appreciated everything he gave to the program, both in Boston and Maine. This move is less about what he did and more about giving ourselves the flexibility we need moving forward.”

Davison had signed a two-way contract in both 2022 and 2023, then a partially guaranteed deal in 2024. Despite flashes of elite athleticism and solid court vision, he found himself buried deep in Boston’s guard rotation behind established veterans like Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard.

The Celtics, one of the most star-studded and deepest teams in the NBA, had little room for developmental minutes, making Davison’s path to the court difficult.

JD Davison’s Time in Boston

JD Davison was selected 53rd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Alabama, where he was known for his explosive leaping ability and high-octane playing style. With Boston, Davison impressed in Summer League and G League stints, averaging 15.7 points, 7.2 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game across two seasons in Maine.

However, his NBA appearances were limited—he played in just 21 games over three seasons, often in blowouts or back-to-back situations when key players were resting. He averaged 2.1 points and 1.0 assists per game in limited action.

The Celtics had reportedly been evaluating Davison’s progress throughout Summer League and offseason training sessions. While he remained a beloved figure in the locker room and developmental staff, the organization ultimately chose to free up a roster spot for potential veteran signings or undrafted players showing promise.

Reactions from Around the NBA

News of Davison’s release was met with mixed emotions online. Celtics fans expressed appreciation for the guard’s hustle and upside while also acknowledging the team’s championship-level ambitions and the need for roster efficiency.

On social media, several of Davison’s Maine Celtics teammates posted supportive messages, thanking him for his leadership and work ethic.

NBA analysts, including ESPN’s Bobby Marks and Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, highlighted the move as a cost-cutting measure and a reflection of how teams under the new CBA must maximize every roster spot.

“This isn’t a judgment on Davison as a player,” Marks wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “This is about the economics of contention. Every player on a contender must either contribute immediately or offer long-term upside.”

What’s Next for JD Davison?

At just 22 years old, Davison still possesses intriguing upside. Several teams around the league—particularly rebuilding franchises or those in need of point guard depth—could take a flier on him. His G League production and athletic profile suggest he’s far from finished.

The Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and San Antonio Spurs are teams that could show interest, either for Summer League, training camp invites, or even a two-way opportunity.

For now, Davison will look to prove himself in offseason workouts, hoping for another shot at establishing a foothold in the NBA. He released a short message on Instagram shortly after the news broke:

“Forever grateful to Boston for giving me a shot. I’ll keep working. My story isn’t over. Let’s get it.”

Celtics’ Roster Moving Forward

The move gives Boston an additional roster spot ahead of training camp. According to cap expert Keith Smith of Spotrac, the Celtics now have 13 players under guaranteed deals, with two spots open for either veteran free agents or non-guaranteed invitees.

Boston has already been linked to several free-agent veterans this offseason, including Will Barton, Juan Toscano-Anderson, and even a possible reunion with Blake Griffin, who played for the team in 2023.

“Don’t be surprised if the Celtics use this open spot on a defensive-minded wing or another big man,” Smith said. “They’ve already made it clear they’re going all-in on repeating.”

The Celtics’ core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Jrue Holiday remains intact. With another full season of experience and one championship already under their belt, Boston is focused on maintaining depth while keeping luxury tax penalties manageable under the second apron.

Developmental Strategy Adjustments

JD Davison’s departure also reflects a broader shift in Boston’s developmental philosophy. Rather than stocking the roster with multiple projects, the Celtics appear focused on players who can make an impact immediately or play a clearly defined backup role.

Second-round pick Baylor Scheierman and undrafted standout Quinten Post have drawn praise internally and could be in line for development minutes Davison once held.

“We’re looking at guys who can grow fast within our system,” said Celtics assistant GM Mike Zarren. “The bar has been raised after a championship season.”

While the release of a third-year reserve guard might not register as headline news on a championship roster, the departure of JD Davison underscores the brutal reality of professional sports: potential alone doesn’t always guarantee a place in the big leagues.

The Boston Celtics made a difficult, strategic decision that speaks volumes about their focus on efficiency, competitiveness, and readiness to repeat as NBA champions.

As Davison begins his next chapter, the Celtics continue to refine theirs—sharpened by titles, driven by legacy, and measured by banners.