Luke Kornet created an issue for the Celtics in the frontcourt when he left Boston in free agency to sign a four-year, $41 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs.
But it seems none of his former teammates, including Celtics star Jayson Tatum, hold any ill feelings toward the 7-foot-2 center for the decision he made.
Tatum even went to social media to express his happiness for Kornet inking his biggest contract since entering the league on a two-way deal with the New York Knicks in 2017.
"Much deserved," Tatum captioned an Instagram story with an ESPN graphic of Kornet signing with the Spurs.
Kornet was a locker room and fan favorite with the Celtics over the last three-plus seasons he spent with Boston. His gritty play and infectious, upbeat attitude gained him respect among his peers.
Kornet, who never signed a contract over $4.5 million during his eight seasons in the NBA, turned in arguably the best season of his career this year. He played in a career-high 73 games and averaged 6.0 points and 5.3 rebounds while shooting 66.8% from the field. He also served as a terrific interior defensive presence for the Celtics.
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Tatum certainly wasn't the only one excited to see Kornet get rewarded for his effort, even with the contract not coming from the Celtics. Celtics director of player development Craig Luschenat also shared a similar sentiment with Kornet cashing in.
"Been an unbelievable 4 years together," Luschenat wrote on X. "Going to be missed, but very well deserved!!"
The Celtics will look to Neemias Queta, Xavier Tillman and recently signed center Luka Garza to make up for the loss of Kornet.
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