The Boston Celtics are on track to assemble the most expensive roster in NBA history, with projections estimating their payroll will reach $500 million by the 2025-26 season. This financial pressure has reportedly created significant discord within the Grousbeck family, according to recent insights from The New York Post.
Irving Grousbeck, who holds a 20 percent stake in the Celtics, has expressed frustration over the team’s complicated salary cap situation. This tension stems from decisions made by his son, Wyc Grousbeck, the team governor, who was instrumental in securing the contracts of key players that contributed to the Celtics’ recent championship win.
A source close to the situation highlighted the underlying issue: “That’s what happens when dad puts in most of the money,” pointing to the financial strain that comes with such high investments. Another insider added, “Wyc says we’ll spend whatever it takes, but dad wasn’t into losing money,” indicating a significant rift between father and son over the team’s fiscal strategies.
In a surprising turn of events, Wyc Grousbeck announced the sale of the Boston Celtics in early July, shortly after the team secured the NBA title for the 2023-24 season. Potential buyers, including Fenway Sports Group and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, were rumored to be interested. However, the sale has stalled due to concerns about the team’s high projected losses and the lack of a dedicated arena.
The Celtics’ spending spree has been extensive. This offseason alone, Jayson Tatum was signed to a five-year, $315 million supermax extension—the largest contract in NBA history. Jaylen Brown also received a $304 million extension, while Derrick White and Sam Hauser secured substantial contracts of their own. As it stands, Jaylen Brown leads the team with a salary of $49.2 million for the 2024-25 season, with Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and White following suit.
Looking ahead, ESPN estimates that the Celtics could face a staggering luxury tax bill of approximately $280 million for the 2025-26 season, as the updated collective bargaining agreement imposes stricter penalties. This looming financial burden is likely to intensify the internal conflicts and complicate any potential sale of the franchise.
The situation underscores the broader challenges facing high-spending teams in the NBA and the intricate dynamics within sports ownership. As the Celtics navigate these turbulent waters, the future of one of the league’s storied franchises remains uncertain.