As the Boston Celtics enter a pivotal offseason, head coach Joe Mazzulla appears to have identified a promising solution to address the team’s looming roster uncertainties — French forward Noah Penda.
With the Celtics grappling with salary cap pressure and possible roster shake-ups involving veterans like Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet, Mazzulla is reportedly pushing for the front office to pursue Penda as a low-cost, high-upside addition.
Why Penda?
Noah Penda, a 6’8″ versatile wing, is gaining attention for his defensive agility, perimeter shooting potential, and ability to guard multiple positions — all traits that fit Mazzulla’s modern, switch-heavy system. According to league insiders, Mazzulla views Penda as an ideal bench piece who could step up into rotation minutes if the Celtics decide to trim salary by moving higher-paid veterans.
“He’s exactly the type of player we need right now — young, flexible, and hungry to prove himself,” a Celtics staff member reportedly commented. “In a tight cap situation, you can’t underestimate the value of fresh legs and coachable talent like Penda.”
Boston’s Roster Puzzle
The Celtics are currently facing one of the NBA’s steepest payrolls — projected near $500 million — while also dealing with the uncertainty surrounding Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury recovery. With trade rumors swirling around core veterans to ease financial strain, adding affordable players like Penda is seen as a crucial strategy.
Penda’s potential signing also comes as Mazzulla retools his lineups. The Celtics could lean more on younger players such as Payton Pritchard and Sam Hauser, while bringing in developmental prospects like Penda to fill depth gaps left by outgoing veterans.
Draft or Free Agent Path?
Boston could target Penda either via the upcoming NBA Draft (June 25–26) or as an undrafted free agent, depending on where his stock settles. The team has reportedly scouted him closely during European showcases this spring.
If acquired, Penda would join a Celtics roster already rich in experience but in need of youthful energy — especially with Al Horford’s future uncertain and Porzingis recovering from injury.
The Bigger Picture
For Joe Mazzulla, the focus is clear: maintain Boston’s championship window while infusing new life into the rotation. Noah Penda could be a quiet but meaningful piece of that puzzle.
As the offseason unfolds, fans can expect the Celtics to keep exploring smart, affordable options to stay competitive — and Penda may be among the first of those be.
