This NBA season, the league’s latest rules shift is pushing many teams to rethink their spending strategies—everyone, that is, except the Boston Celtics. While other franchises are cutting payroll, trading star players, and seeking financial flexibility, the Celtics are doubling down, paying over $50 million annually to two players and preparing to be the NBA’s priciest team over the next four years. So, why are other teams making budget cuts when the Celtics seem unfazed?

The NBA’s recent rule changes, like the second “apron” (which limits team spending above a certain threshold), are a response to the spiraling payroll costs across the league. Many teams were massively exceeding the cap—especially big-market ones like the Clippers and Warriors—leading to competitive imbalances. The soft cap model allowed teams to retain players by going over the cap under certain conditions, but teams have used this loophole to inflate their payrolls, adding new talent while still re-signing star players at high costs. However, the Celtics appear unbothered by these restrictions and seem committed to a big-budget approach.

This bold choice by the Celtics stands out in a season where nearly every team is adjusting to the new financial climate.