While Sam Hauser stole the show with a career-high 33 points, including a franchise-record seven three-pointers in a quarter, Springer’s presence in Boston was another notable storyline. The 22-year-old was traded to the Houston Rockets before last month’s deadline but was later waived and signed by the rebuilding Jazz.

Springer was the subject of Celtics trade rumors dating back to training camp, largely due to his $4.02 million salary. With luxury repeater tax penalties factored in, that would

Springer, whom Boston acquired from Philadelphia ahead of the 2024 trade deadline, said he appreciated Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens’ transparency during the negotiation process. He said he has no ill will toward the Celtics — with whom he won an NBA championship last season — for shipping him out.