My statement was absolutely about the 25-26 season and beyond. Next year if Jrue opts in, Boston has about 200 million and 11 players under contract (the top 6, PP, Springer, Brissett, Hauser, Walsh). Even if Jrue drops down 15 million, the team will probably not avoid the 2nd apron, but if it does it will be so close to it, it won't matter all that much practically.
In 25-26, the only 4 players under contract are Jaylen at 53 million, Porzingis at 31 million, PP at 7 million, and Walsh at 2 million. The cap is currently projected at 155 million, which puts Tatum extension at just over 54 million. Let's say White gets a Zinger type contract so 32 million. So that leaves about 40 million to fill out the roster and stay below the 2nd apron. It may be inevitable that year, but it is not in 26-27 if Jrue is small enough. That is where the benefit lies, i.e. getting out of the 2nd apron sooner.