Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown (7) defends New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson as Kristaps Porzingis watches during the first half of Game 6 in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the NBA basketball playoffs Friday, May 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) The Boston Celtics have signed Jalen Bridges, a 24-year-old small forward who previously spent time on a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns. The new deal is structured as a training camp contract, giving Bridges the chance to compete for a two-way roster spot against other first-year players in a crowded Celtics roster battle.
How the Contract Works and Roster Implications
Standing 6-foot-7, Jalen Bridges brings defensive versatility and reliable three-point shooting – skills that align with Boston’s blueprint of athletic wing players who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions.However, Boston already has its three two-way contracts filled by rookies Amari Williams, Max Shulga, and RJ Luis Jr. For Bridges to claim a slot, the Celtics would need to either convert one of those contracts into a standard NBA deal or waive one player to free up space. While the financial details of the contract have not been revealed, the move carries minimal risk and strong developmental upside.
Why the Signing Benefits All Sides
Jayson Tatum’s teammate expresses concern after Boston Celtics star suffers a setback during Game 4 (Image Credit: Getty Images)
• Boston Celtics: Adding Bridges provides the Celtics with depth at a crucial position. With Jayson Tatum sidelined by injury, Bridges’ shooting and defense could offer much-needed support. He adds bench scoring potential, defensive flexibility, and allows Boston to strengthen its roster without straining the salary cap. • Jalen Bridges: For Bridges, this is a career-defining chance. After appearing in just eight NBA games with Phoenix last season, he now joins a championship-caliber team where he can compete for minutes, grow in a winning environment, and potentially secure a permanent roster role. • Phoenix Suns: Although not involved in the deal, the Suns indirectly benefit. By parting ways with Jalen Bridges, Phoenix opens up developmental opportunities for other players. Given Bridges’ limited NBA minutes in Phoenix, the change represents a fresh start for both sides.
The Pros and Cons of Boston’s Decision
AspectProsCons Boston Celtics Gains a versatile, three-point shooting wing; low financial risk; extra defensive depth; valuable cover behind Jaylen Brown and Derrick White Must clear a two-way spot; Bridges is untested at NBA level; unclear short-term impact Jalen Bridges Opportunity with a contender; chance to prove himself; development in a strong system No guaranteed roster spot; stiff competition in camp; minimal NBA track record Celtics Roster Greater rotation flexibility and injury cover options Roster crunch due to two-way contract limits
Jalen Bridges’ Statistical Profile
StatisticValue (2024-25 G League)NBA 2024-25 (Phoeix Suns) Points per game 14.3 1.1 Rebounds per game 5.8 0.5 Assists per game 1.5 0.0 Three-point shooting % ~36% 28.6% Height 6’7” (204 cm) 6’7” (204 cm) Age 24 24 College Baylor University Baylor UniversityIn the G League, Bridges showed real potential as a two-way contributor, with solid outside shooting and rebounding. His NBA numbers are limited, but they reflect his current developmental stage rather than his ceiling.
Who Gains the Most From This Move?
Overall, the Boston Celtics come out as the biggest winners. The team secures a versatile wing who aligns with its system and addresses immediate depth concerns while managing salary cap flexibility.For Jalen Bridges, this move represents a rare and valuable chance to break through with a contender. If he can replicate his G League success and adapt to the NBA pace, he could carve out a role similar to past developmental successes like Sam Hauser or Neemias Queta.The Suns, while no longer directly involved, gain additional flexibility for their own roster decisions.
My Two Cents on the Signing
This signing highlights how elite NBA franchises manage roster depth beyond their superstar talent. Training camp contracts and two-way deals provide the flexibility to discover hidden contributors while keeping long-term championship goals intact.Also read: NBA Trade News: New York Knicks Add 6-feet-7 G-League Star on Exhibit 10 Deal to Bolster Title OddsJalen Bridges embodies this balancing act – on the edge of NBA permanence, armed with the tools to succeed if opportunity and performance align. For Boston, the signing is a strategic move that could pay dividends in a season shaped by injuries and the constant search for reliable role players. Boston Celtics fans will be watching closely to see whether Bridges can make his mark in green and white.