Jaden Springer, recently traded by the Boston Celtics in a cost-cutting move, debuted with the Utah Jazz over the weekend after bouncing between teams following the NBA trade deadline.
Springer, 22, came off the bench in back-to-back games for Utah on Friday and Saturday. Initially signing a 10-day contract with the Jazz, reports from The Salt Lake Tribune’s Andy Larsen indicate the team is likely to extend him for at least another 10 days.
In Friday’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Springer showed promise, contributing seven points, one rebound, two assists, and two turnovers in 11 minutes. However, his playing time dwindled during Saturday’s victory over the Houston Rockets, where he logged just four scoreless minutes.
The Celtics traded Springer and a 2030 second-round pick to the Rockets ahead of the deadline in exchange for a heavily protected future pick. The move reportedly saves Boston $15 million in luxury tax penalties. To fill Springer’s roster spot, the Celtics signed veteran forward Torrey Craig after his release from the Chicago Bulls.
Houston waived Springer immediately after acquiring him to clear space for another transaction. He cleared waivers and joined the Jazz, who are prioritizing youth development amid a 14-42 season.
During his two-year stint in Boston, Springer averaged 1.9 points and 1.0 rebounds in just 6.3 minutes per game across 43 appearances. With Utah focused on rebuilding, Springer is expected to see continued opportunities to prove his potential.
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