As the NBA offseason buzz continues, trade rumors are swirling once again — and this time, PJ Washington has found his name mixed into whispers involving the Boston Celtics and the Jrue Holiday trade saga. While nothing is official yet, the idea of Washington in green and white has sparked real debate. Could he be a good fit in Boston’s system? Would he elevate the Celtics to a new level? Let’s break down the case for — and against — adding PJ Washington to the title-hunting Celtics roster. ☘️
Background: How Did PJ Washington Enter the Conversation?
When the Boston Celtics traded for Jrue Holiday last offseason, they gave up Marcus Smart, Robert Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, and multiple first-round picks between the two key trades that landed both Kristaps Porziņģis and Holiday. That major roster reshuffling has already paid off: Boston finished with the NBA’s best record and cruised through the East.
But even with that success, the Celtics’ front office has never been one to rest. If PJ Washington is now being linked to potential offseason moves, it’s likely part of a long-term strategy to stay young, athletic, and versatile while keeping the championship window wide open.
PJ Washington, currently with the Charlotte Hornets, was reportedly floated as a piece the Hornets could include in a multi-team deal to facilitate a potential Celtics move, or in hindsight rumors surrounding the initial acquisition of Jrue. Whether it’s revisiting those talks or forging a new direction, the fit is intriguing.
Why PJ Washington Could Be a Good Fit in Boston
Let’s be clear: PJ Washington is not a superstar. But what he is, is a high-level role player with untapped potential — the kind of player championship teams often need to push them over the top.
1. Versatility on Both Ends
Standing at 6’7″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Washington offers excellent positional flexibility. He can play both forward spots and even slide to small-ball center in certain lineups. On defense, he’s switchable — a must in Boston’s scheme. Imagine a closing lineup of Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, PJ Washington, and Kristaps Porziņģis. That’s length, switchability, and skill across the board.
2. Offensive Upside
Washington averaged 13.6 points per game this past season while shooting around 45% from the field. Though his three-point shooting has fluctuated (he shot 34.6% from deep in 2023–24), his mechanics are solid, and Boston’s offensive system — filled with playmakers and spacing — could unlock even more from his game.
He’s also a decent shot creator in the post or on straight-line drives, something the Celtics often lack from their role players outside of Tatum and Brown. PJ’s mid-range game and improved finishing could be particularly valuable when teams load up on Boston’s stars in the playoffs.
3. Youth and Contract Flexibility
At just 25 years old, PJ Washington fits into both the Celtics’ present and future. He’s entering his prime, and his current contract (a three-year, $46.5 million deal signed with Charlotte) is very manageable under the new CBA. Adding him gives Boston another solid player under team control without breaking the bank.
Concerns About Adding PJ Washington
While Washington’s potential is promising, there are some valid concerns about how he would fit on a roster already stacked with forward talent.
1. Positional Logjam
The Celtics are already built around two wing stars in Tatum and Brown. They also have Al Horford, Sam Hauser, and Oshae Brissett rotating through the forward spots. Would Washington get enough minutes to make a real impact, or would he be a luxury piece that disrupts chemistry?
2. Inconsistent 3-Point Shooting
Boston’s offense thrives on floor spacing. Washington’s three-point shooting, while decent, hasn’t been consistent enough to command defensive respect like Hauser or Horford. Unless he improves his outside shot, he might struggle to fit into Boston’s high-volume shooting philosophy.
3. What Would Boston Give Up?
This is the biggest question: What would the Celtics have to trade to get PJ Washington? If Charlotte is looking for draft capital, Boston might be reluctant after already giving up so many picks for Porziņģis and Holiday. If a player like Payton Pritchard or Hauser is involved, fans might hesitate to break up a well-functioning rotation.
Would Fans Like to See It?
The idea of adding a player like PJ Washington is understandably exciting. He’s young, athletic, and fits the mold of the modern NBA forward. But Celtics fans are also understandably cautious — Boston is already a top-tier team with chemistry and championship momentum. Any change, even a potentially positive one, risks disturbing that balance.
That said, Brad Stevens has shown an elite ability to make smart, measured moves — and if Washington is truly available for the right price, he might be too good to pass up. In the grueling Eastern Conference, you can never have too much depth or too many bodies to throw at stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jimmy Butler, or Tyrese Haliburton.
Final Verdict: Is PJ Washington Worth It?
Would I like to see PJ Washington on the Boston Celtics? Yes — but only if the price is right. Boston doesn’t need him, but he could provide a strong two-way presence, youth, and versatility that could pay major dividends in the playoffs.
Imagine Washington playing key minutes in an Eastern Conference Finals game, hitting a timely three, switching onto a hot scorer, and giving Boston that extra edge. He’s not a headline-stealer — but in June, he could be a difference-maker.
