Celtics Sign Banton & Tonje to 10-Day Contracts to Fill Roster Spots

The Boston Celtics addressed immediate roster needs Thursday by signing guards Dalano Banton and John Tonje to 10-day contracts. This move restores the team to the NBA-required minimum of 14 players on standard deals, ahead of their game against the Golden State Warriors.

Roster Adjustments Following Trades

The Celtics had been operating with a reduced roster of 12 players following a series of trades completed before the February 5th deadline. Anfernee Simons, Josh Minott, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman were traded away, with Nikola Vucevic and Tonje coming to Boston in return. One roster spot remains open.

Did You Know? The Celtics have shed more than $350 million from their payroll since the summer, factoring in salaries and luxury tax penalties.

Familiar Faces Return

Dalano Banton is a known quantity to the Celtics organization. The 26-year-old previously played for Boston during the 2023-24 season, appearing in 24 games with one start before being traded to Portland. With the Trail Blazers, Banton averaged 16.7 points and nearly 30 minutes per game. He most recently had a short stint with the Los Angeles Clippers on a 10-day contract.

A New Addition

John Tonje, a 24-year-old second-round rookie out of Wisconsin, joins the Celtics after being acquired in the trade involving Chris Boucher. He has yet to make his NBA debut, but has shown scoring ability with the Maine Celtics, Boston’s G League affiliate, posting 29 points in a recent game against the Motor City Cruise. Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens described Tonje as “an older guy coming out of college that knows how to play and score.”

Financial Considerations and Future Plans

The decision to sign Banton and Tonje to 10-day contracts, rather than longer-term deals, allowed the Celtics to remain just below the NBA’s luxury tax line. This was a primary factor in the team’s trade deadline decisions, as they sought to avoid further financial penalties. The team is also evaluating players within their system, including those on two-way contracts, such as Ron Harper Jr., who has been called “a stud” and “one of the best players in the G League” by Stevens.

Expert Insight: The Celtics’ approach demonstrates a clear prioritization of financial flexibility, even as they aim to bolster their roster for a playoff run. Utilizing 10-day contracts and evaluating internal talent allows them to address immediate needs without long-term financial commitments.

These 10-day contracts will expire after games against the Warriors, Lakers, Suns, Nuggets, and Nets. The Celtics will likely continue to assess options, including players in their G League system and potential buyout candidates, as they prepare for the postseason.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the Celtics to sign Banton and Tonje?

The Celtics needed to fill two roster spots to reach the NBA-mandated minimum of 14 players after recent trades. Brad Stevens also stated the team wanted to add another ball handler after trading away Anfernee Simons.

Will these players be part of the Celtics’ regular rotation?

According to Brad Stevens, players brought in on 10-day contracts are unlikely to be part of the regular rotation when the team is fully healthy. The focus is on finding players who are willing to accept that role and contribute when needed.

What is the Celtics’ strategy for filling the remaining roster spot?

The Celtics will evaluate players within their organization, including those on two-way contracts in Maine and potential buyout candidates from other NBA teams. Stevens emphasized that the team is looking for players who are a good fit for the team culture and willing to contribute to winning.

How will the Celtics balance addressing roster needs with maintaining financial flexibility as they approach the playoffs?