‘I’m Not Done Yet’: Celtics Free Agent Hints at Emotional Return

‘I’m Not Done Yet’: Celtics Free Agent Hints at Emotional Return

Although Torrey Craig didn’t see significant playing time during the Boston Celtics’ playoff run, the seasoned veteran still had high praise for his short stint with the team. As the Celtics’ season came to an unexpected end with a Game 6 loss to the New York Knicks, Craig opened up about what it meant to be part of one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.

Joining Boston midseason, Craig embraced his role and quickly became a beloved presence on the bench and in the locker room. Despite limited minutes, the 34-year-old wing spoke glowingly of the “winning culture” and family-like atmosphere he encountered in Boston.

“It was an amazing experience,” Craig told MassLive. “The togetherness stood out. Everyone, from the players to the coaching staff to the front office, is truly for one another. It’s a wholesome place to be.”

Craig signed with the Celtics in early February after being waived by the Chicago Bulls. His stint in Chicago was brief, having been limited to just nine games due to a lingering ankle injury. Once healthy, Craig emerged as one of the more intriguing options on the buyout market—a physical, 6-foot-5 wing with playoff experience and a reputation as a solid defender and occasional 3-point threat.

Boston, seeking depth on the perimeter, quickly brought him in. Over the course of 17 regular season games—including three starts—Craig averaged 2.7 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. He also appeared in five playoff games, where his energy on the bench and support for teammates didn’t go unnoticed.

But it was what happened off the court that seemed to resonate most with Craig.

“From Day 1, everyone made the transition smooth,” he said. “They helped me find a place to live, welcomed my family, my son got to enjoy the experience too. The staff was always there—training guys, PT guys—working with me every single day. From top to bottom, it’s definitely one of the best organizations I’ve been around.”

Now facing free agency once again this summer, Craig’s future is uncertain. Still, he didn’t rule out the possibility of returning to Boston, depending on how things unfold.

“I guess we’ll cross that path when we get there,” Craig said. “I’ll talk with my agents, weigh the options, but I wouldn’t mind re-signing here.”

At this stage in his career, Craig brings valuable experience and locker room leadership—qualities that can’t always be measured in the box score. And while his role in Boston was limited statistically, his impact within the team dynamic was clear.

Whether or not he suits up in green again next season, Craig’s time with the Celtics seems to have left a lasting impression. For a player who’s spent time with several organizations over eight NBA seasons, Boston may have felt a little more like home.