𝔻𝔼𝔸𝕃 ℂ𝕆ℕ𝔽𝕀ℝ𝕄𝔼𝔻: Boston Celtics Land Key Denver Nuggets Guard on Opening Day of NBA Free Agency in a Game-Changing Move
BOSTON, MA — July 1, 2025 | ESPN Breaking News
The Boston Celtics have wasted no time making a splash in NBA Free Agency. Just hours after the market officially opened, league sources confirmed that the defending Eastern Conference champions have reached a deal with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope—a battle-tested, two-way guard who was instrumental in Denver’s 2023 championship run. The contract: 3 years, $54 million with a player option in year three.
Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens addressed the media this afternoon inside the Auerbach Center.
> “We’re thrilled to welcome Kentavious to Boston,” Stevens said. “He brings championship pedigree, elite perimeter defense, and a toughness that fits our culture perfectly. He knows what it takes to win—and he’ll help us win more.”
A Proven Winner Joins a Championship Core
Caldwell-Pope, 32, averaged 10.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game with Denver last season while shooting 40.2% from beyond the arc. More than the stats, KCP brings a reputation as one of the league’s most disciplined defenders and a glue guy in the locker room.
Sources close to the deal report that Boston outbid contenders like the Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks, who were seeking veteran perimeter depth.
“This is about fit and ambition,” said Caldwell-Pope’s agent, Rich Paul. “KCP saw an opportunity in Boston—a team on the brink of multiple titles. He’s all-in.”
Strategic Depth & Defensive Identity
In acquiring Caldwell-Pope, Boston fortifies its already elite defense. Paired with Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, and Jayson Tatum, the Celtics now have arguably the deepest perimeter defensive unit in the league. This move gives Joe Mazzulla the flexibility to run three-guard lineups or go small without sacrificing defensive integrity.
“Every playoff series comes down to stops,” said Mazzulla. “KCP gives us another guy who can switch, slide, and hit big shots when it matters.”
Celtics Aren’t Done Yet
Insiders suggest this is only the first move in Boston’s 2025 free agency blueprint. Talks are ongoing with veteran bigs to support Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford, and a possible extension for Derrick White is in the works.
But the acquisition of Caldwell-Pope is already sending ripples across the NBA.
Jayson Tatum posted on Instagram:
> “That dog just landed in Boston. Let’s work 🐺☘️”
Jaylen Brown followed with:
> “It’s chess, not checkers. Welcome, KCP.”
A Familiar Blueprint
It’s not the first time Boston has dipped into a champion’s DNA to elevate its own pursuit. Think Ray Allen in 2007. Think Malcolm Brogdon in 2022. Now, Caldwell-Pope brings the wisdom of two rings—from Los Angeles and Denver—to a locker room that’s no longer hungry, but starving for more.
As free agency unfolds, one thing is clear: The Celtics aren’t standing pat. They’re reloading—with precision.
End.
