Man, watching Jrue Holiday play defense is almost spiritual:
Boston Celtics player Jrue Holiday wants to secure his future with the green team. Although he is currently unable to sign a contract extension, the former Bucs player expressed his desire to reach an agreement before the end of the regular season and remain in Massachusetts for the long haul.
"I'd like to be here," Holiday told MassLive.com's Brian Robb, "I feel like I'm getting more and more comfortable, loving the guys, loving the organization and loving the city."
Holiday will be eligible for an extension in about four weeks, but at that point he can only sign for one or two years, with no raise above 5%. For a longer contract or a larger raise, he will have to wait until April 1, six months after his trade to the Celtics.
If he doesn't reach an extension deal, Holiday would have to decide in the spring on a player option for 2024-25 for approximately $39.4 million. According to league sources, the 33-year-old is expected to decline the option, seeking a longer-term contract, even if it involves a pay cut in the first year.
Despite the contractual uncertainty, Holiday is optimistic that extension talks will be productive in April as the Celtics prepare for the playoffs.
"My last extension was during the course of the year," Holiday recalled. "I think we can do both, talk about it and prepare for the future."
Holiday's effective fit with Boston this season indicates that the Celtics are likely interested in discussing an extension. However, determining his value may be a challenge as his game has evolved this season.
His 17.2% usage rate is the lowest of his career, and his 13.3 points per game are below his average. However, his 6.2 rebounds per game and 42.5% three-point percentage are both career highs.
Holiday joins a crucial Celtics core, with five other key players already under contract for 2024-25. A new deal for Holiday could push the team's salary above the luxury tax line. Despite this, ownership is likely willing to invest to keep the team's success intact.
"I think everybody knows we're ready and will be ready for a long time," Holiday said. "Whatever happens, you're going to come back here with the same guys for the most part. Things happen, but I think you hold on to that, to be able to have that comfort and that pressure about what's to come."
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