Boston Celtics Alternate Governor Wyc Grousbeck has delivered a clear message that the team’s current roster is not necessarily its final form. In a recent radio appearance, he outlined the financial realities forcing the front office to consider significant changes, directly putting players on notice about potential moves.

Grousbeck stated plainly, “This isn’t the roster we’re going to carry forward necessarily.” He explained that the organization likely has roster moves it would like to make either during this season or in the upcoming offseason. The owner specifically pointed to the center position as an area of concern, noting the team became thin after losing three centers this summer due to financial constraints.

The primary driver for potential changes is the NBA’s second apron rule, which Grousbeck described as a “harder cap.” He emphasized that no team can afford to stay over this luxury tax threshold for multiple years, calling the rule something “you can’t do anymore.” This financial pressure forced the Celtics to trade key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis while letting Al Horford leave in free agency.

Moreover, Grousbeck directly addressed the team’s depth at the center spot, noting, “We’re thin at center.” He explained that the Celtics lost three centers during the offseason following the financial struggles.

The current group competing for the role includes Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman. The team hopes two or three of them will step up, potentially making a trade unnecessary.

Grousbeck expressed full confidence in President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens to make smart moves when the time comes. He referenced Stevens’ past decisions to trade popular players like Marcus Smart and Grant Williams, which ultimately contributed to a championship. The Governor added he “can’t wait for Brad’s moves when they come.”

Separately, Grousbeck dampened expectations about Jayson Tatum’s return from a torn Achilles this season. Which sets the stage for what Grousbeck had to say regarding Tatum’s injury and return, and why it’s going viral.

Wyc Grousbeck on Tatum’s return

Despite encouraging videos of Tatum’s rehabilitation progress circulating online, the team’s top executive emphasized a cautious approach that assumes the forward will not play during the upcoming season.

Grousbeck stated definitively that the organization will not pressure Tatum to return early from the serious injury. He explained, “We’re not gonna ever ask him to come back. We’re assuming he’s not coming back.”

The CEO added that any future discussion about playing would require multiple medical opinions, indicating the team’s priority is long-term health over short-term gains.

This announcement comes despite Tatum’s own social media posts showing his remarkable recovery progress.

Recent videos depicted the six-time All-Star performing basketball activities including dunking from a standing position. These visuals had sparked optimism among fans hoping for a mid-season return.

The injury originally occurred during Game Four of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last May. The Celtics eventually lost that series while playing without their leading scorer. Tatum’s absence significantly impacts Boston’s championship aspirations for the second consecutive season.

Grousbeck acknowledged Tatum’s determination while maintaining the team’s protective stance. He noted, “I’ll never bet against Jason Tatum, but nor will he be asked by the Celtics to come back early.” This perspective underscores the franchise’s commitment to their superstar’s career longevity over immediate competitive needs.