NBA Expansion Looms: How Will Celtics Roster Change?

Celtics face tough protection decisions with new teams in Seattle and Las Vegas expected to join the league.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The NBA is reportedly considering expanding by two teams, with a possible vote by the Board of Governors this summer. The new franchises are expected to be located in Seattle and Las Vegas, signaling a significant shift in the league's landscape that could greatly affect current team rosters, including the Boston Celtics. Teams can only protect eight players during an expansion draft, forcing the Celtics to make difficult decisions about which players to shield from selection.

Why it matters

The potential NBA expansion presents the Celtics with complex roster management challenges, balancing development prospects with established talent. Protecting the right mix of players will be crucial to maintaining competitiveness while navigating the uncertainty of the draft process. How Boston handles this moment could influence their trajectory in the coming years, especially as younger players vie for roles amid the league's evolving landscape.

The details

Several Celtics stars clearly stand out as must-protect choices, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Zelfen Neemias Queta. Sam Hauser is also likely to be protected due to his long-term contract and elite shooting ability. Players on the bubble for protection consideration include Hugo Gonzalez and Jordan Walsh, while Baylor Scheierman, Amari Williams, and Luka Garza could be at risk of selection by the new teams.

  • The NBA Board of Governors is expected to vote on expansion this summer.
  • The expansion draft would be the first in nearly two decades.

The players

Jayson Tatum

The franchise cornerstone and All-Star who is entering his prime at age 28.

Jaylen Brown

An irreplaceable asset who has elevated his game to All-Star starter level.

Derrick White

Offers consistency beyond his current shooting struggles and is locked into the roster with a long-term contract.

Payton Pritchard

The reigning Sixth Man of the Year who continues to grow on a cost-effective deal.

Zelfen Neemias Queta

The 26-year-old emerging as Boston's starting center and approaching his prime years.

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What they’re saying

“Think it's going to be an extra-great year for Seattle. I'm hearing NBA Board of Governors likely to vote on expanding by two teams this summer and Las Vegas and Seattle are favored.”

— Brad Townsend, Sports reporter (Twitter)

What’s next

The NBA Board of Governors is expected to vote on expansion this summer, which would trigger an expansion draft and force the Celtics to make tough decisions about which players to protect.

The takeaway

The potential NBA expansion presents the Celtics with complex roster management challenges, as they must balance protecting their established stars with developing younger talent. How the team navigates this process could have significant implications for their future competitiveness in the evolving league landscape.