Celtics News: Danny Ainge Retires, Brad Stevens New Celtics President

The Celtics’ season came to an end last night with a 123-109 loss to the Nets. However, the real news today comes in the form of big front office changes.

Danny Ainge is officially retiring. Brad Stevens will transition from the head coach into a front-office role as the new president of basketball operations. Stevens will help lead the search to find the next head coach of the Boston Celtics.

Team Governor Wyc Grousbeck spoke about the transition and the goals of the franchise at the announcement press conference today.

Watch the full press conference on the CLNS Media YouTube channel.

Ainge had apparently been considering the change for months. He spoke with ownership about a succession plan, and Stevens became their top choice. Rumors of a shake-up in the front office had been swirling, as the Celtics finished with their worst regular-season record since the 2014-15 season.

As the Celtics begin their search for a new head coach, a couple of candidates have already risen to the top of the list. According to Chris Haynes, Lakers assistant Jason Kidd and former Hawks coach Lloyd Pierce are the current frontrunners.

Tim – The Celtics’ formally announced the change via their Twitter, with quotes from both Ainge and Stevens. Ainge said the past 18 years have been a “thrill of a lifetime,” while Stevens was quoted saying that he is “excited to tackle this new role.”