Boston Celtics Waive Reserve Point Guard JD Davison
Boston, MA – The Boston Celtics have waived reserve point guard JD Davison, the team announced Thursday. This move reduces the Celtics’ roster to 14 players, leaving one open spot on their 15-man roster. While the decision may seem surprising given Davison’s recent success, it’s a strategic move designed to improve the team’s salary cap flexibility and provide Davison with a better opportunity to secure a roster spot elsewhere.
The Celtics exercised Davison’s $2.3 million team option on June 29th, but the contract was non-guaranteed. By waiving him now, the Celtics avoid any salary cap implications for the upcoming season. This strategic maneuver allows Boston to operate under the NBA’s second apron, significantly enhancing their trade flexibility. The team can now pursue potential trades without being hampered by salary cap restrictions.
Davison’s time with the Celtics has been a journey of development and growth. After three seasons as a two-way player, he was signed to a standard NBA contract in April. His performance in the G-League during the 2024-25 season was exceptional, culminating in a G-League MVP award. He split his time between the Maine Celtics and the Boston Celtics, showcasing his talent and versatility. His participation in the Rising Stars Challenge at All-Star Weekend further highlighted his potential.
Despite his impressive G-League performance, Davison faced an uphill battle to secure a roster spot with the Celtics. The team’s existing depth at the point guard position, coupled with salary cap considerations, made his chances of making the final roster slim. By waiving him now, the Celtics are giving Davison a chance to find a new home where he might have a better opportunity to contribute. This move also allows him to avoid the uncertainty of being released during training camp.
Davison, a 22-year-old guard, has appeared in 36 NBA games over the past three seasons, averaging 2.1 points and 0.9 assists per game. Selected by the Celtics with the 53rd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, he did not participate in this summer’s NBA Summer League. While his time in Boston may have been shorter than anticipated, his talent and potential remain evident. The move reflects a calculated decision by the Celtics to prioritize salary cap flexibility and provide Davison with a pathway to a more suitable opportunity.
