BREAKING: Former Celtics DPOY says he was blindsided about getting traded.

In a recent interview, former Boston Celtics Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) expressed his surprise and frustration about being traded. The player, who had become a key defensive anchor for the Celtics, revealed that he had no prior indication of the trade, calling the move a “blindsiding” experience. He shared that while the NBA is a business, the emotional toll of being traded after having committed so much to the team was still difficult to process.

The player had been with the Celtics for several seasons, earning the DPOY award for his outstanding performance on the defensive end. His reputation as a versatile, hard-nosed defender had made him a fan favorite and a critical piece of the team’s identity. However, despite his individual accolades and his importance to the Celtics’ success, the franchise made the decision to move on.

This trade, which took place in the off-season, left many Celtics fans in shock, as the player was viewed as a cornerstone of the team’s defensive structure. The news was particularly surprising given his recent recognition and his role in the Celtics’ deep playoff runs.

For the player, the trade was a stark reminder of the business side of the NBA, where loyalty and personal connections often take a backseat to team strategy and financial considerations. He acknowledged that while he felt hurt by the sudden decision, he was determined to move forward and focus on his next chapter in the league.

Reflecting on the experience, the former DPOY expressed his gratitude for the time spent with the Celtics and the opportunity to grow as a player. Though blindsided by the trade, he remains optimistic about his future and eager to prove himself in his new team.