The Boston Celtics continue to tinker with the edges of their roster as training camp draws near. On Friday, the team moved on from rookie guard Hayden Gray, though the decision doesn’t completely close the book on his connection to the franchise.
Celtics Cut Hayden Gray
According to Keith Smith of Spotrac, Boston has waived Gray, who joined the organization earlier this offseason on an Exhibit 10 contract. While that agreement never guaranteed him a spot on the Celtics’ regular-season roster, it does pave the way for him to link up with the team’s G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics.
Players cut from Exhibit 10 deals often transition directly into the G League system. Those who remain on the roster for at least 60 days can collect bonuses worth up to $85,300. For Gray, the Maine route gives him a developmental runway while keeping him on Boston’s radar for future two-way or 10-day opportunities.
What Gray Brings to the Celtics
Gray, 23, went undrafted out of UC San Diego, where he built his reputation as a disruptive perimeter defender. He led the NCAA in steals last season with 3.1 per game, while averaging 11.2 points, 3.3 assists, and shooting 41.8% from three-point range.
He also appeared briefly for Boston’s Summer League squad in July, playing in two games and averaging 3.5 points on 75% shooting. His defensive instincts and knack for disrupting plays stood out. Celtics assistant coach Matt Reynolds told CelticsBlog:
“He’s just a crafty player. But the big thing is he’s a very smart player, very savvy, and he’s attacking the basketball on defense. And I think he’s going to have an impact wherever he plays.”
Those qualities — anticipation, toughness, and defensive awareness — are the traits that Boston wants to keep developing in its system.
Boston’s Roster Outlook
Gray’s exit leaves three other Exhibit 10 players — Ron Harper Jr., Jalen Bridges, and Kendall Brown — fighting for a spot as camp opens. Meanwhile, Boston’s three two-way contracts are already filled by rookies Max Shulga, RJ Luis Jr., and Amari Williams.
On the standard roster, Neemias Queta and Jordan Walsh are on partially guaranteed deals. Queta is viewed as a strong candidate for rotation minutes, especially with Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford gone. Walsh, meanwhile, could carve out a role on the wing in a transitional season without Jayson Tatum.
The Exhibit 10 to standard contract path is rare. Still, Boston’s emphasis on flexibility and development means these camp decisions could shape depth throughout the season.
The Bottom Line
Gray’s NBA future is still unsettled. But his defensive instincts and shooting touch give him a chance to stick around in Maine. He’ll remain in the Celtics’ orbit. Training camp is nearly here. Boston’s roster math isn’t done yet. Gray’s journey is far from over.
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