Celtics seek long-term marriage with Jrue Holiday

Brad Stevens and Celtics' ownership were not shy about announcing their intention of keeping Jrue Holiday in Boston long term.

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Asked to explain the emotions behind a smile he's perhaps never displayed as wide as he did at Jrue Holiday's introductory press conference with the Celtics, Brad Stevens conveyed what the environment of Wednesday's practice, Holiday's first with his new team, was like.

The franchise's president of basketball operations had already shared at media day that as Boston's head coach, there were multiple occasions he popped into Danny Ainge's office, wondering about the prospects of trading for the two-time All-Star.

"We've wanted him here for a long time," Stevens said. "When the time comes and we're allowed to talk about those types of things, this is something we hope can be a long-time relationship, obviously, beyond these years of his contract. But we have a few months to go before we can get too deep into that stuff."

Holiday instantly acknowledged Stevens' comments, stating how that communication has been clear since the move, which made Holiday and his family appreciative.

"We've really loved him since New Orleans and watched his play," Celtics co-owner Steve Pagliuca stated. "So, the directive do everything we can to get him here because he can be a key piece to a championship team and he looks great out there with the guys today and we're very excited to be able to field a team like this, it feels fantastic."

Now with Boston spending into the second apron, Wyc Grousbeck continues to double-down on ownership's awareness, as this is a championship-desperation unlike ever before for the Celtics. Ownership has made it clear that they are doing everything they can to win banner 18.

"From a cultural standpoint, he's a perfect fit for the Boston Celtics. Embodies hustle, community, teammate, as Wyc said, I don't think anybody's gotten teammate of the year for three years."

Holiday was nothing short of joyous, his sights set on helping raise Banner 18 to the TD Garden rafters, knowing there is a chance he'll get to enjoy multiple championship parades in Boston.

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