Former Celtics Starter Facing Uncertain Future as Blazers Struggle to Find Trade Partner
Portland Trail Blazers center Luke Kornet, a former Boston Celtics fan favourite, is proving challenging to move in trade negotiations despite the team’s desire to create cap adaptability, according to a report from Chowder and Champions. Kornet is slated to earn $13.2 million in the 2025-26 season, but his unreliability and ample salary are deterring potential suitors.
The Trail Blazers are nearing the NBA’s luxury tax threshold and are seeking to shed salary. Though,Kornet’s position on the roster has diminished following the draft additions of donovan Clingan and rookie Hansen Yang,pushing him down the center depth chart. This situation leaves both the Blazers and Kornet in a precarious position, with his future with the team-and potentially in the league-increasingly uncertain.
Kornet signed with the Blazers in the 2023 offseason after four seasons with the Celtics. while a popular figure in Boston, his inconsistent performance has translated to limited trade value.The Blazers’ attempts to package him in deals to alleviate cap concerns have so far been unsuccessful.
The team’s proximity to the tax line necessitates finding a trade partner, but Kornet’s contract and on-court production present significant hurdles. What the future holds for the former Celtics big man remains unclear,a disappointing outcome for fans who fondly remember his time in Boston.
