Potential Celtics Target Signs with Rival

While the Boston Celtics recently filled their final two-way opening, signing center Neemias Queta, formerly of the Sacramento Kings, Boston's 15th roster spot remains vacant.

The Celtics don't have to fill it, and they're $2.2 million below the second apron, per Spotrac, which could persuade them not to reduce that figure with potential in-season trades in mind.

However, the C's have met with and worked out a trio of free-agent forwards, including Lamar Stevens, and hosted a former NBA Slam Dunk Contest winner.

But Kelly Oubre, who Inside The Celtics weighed the merits of bringing to Boston earlier this offseason, has opted to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

While the former Kansas Jayhawks star isn't known for his three-point proficiency, he drilled 38.3 percent of his 2.2 attempts from the corners last season, per NBA.com.

The six-foot-seven forward also does well finishing at the rim, evidenced by his converting on 60.4 percent of his 250 total attempts in the restricted area in 2022-23, per NBA.com.

Defensively, Oubre's seven-foot-two wingspan helps him disrupt plays, whether on or off the ball. His versatility at that end is another aspect that surely appeals to the Sixers.

While the Celtics signing free-agent sharpshooter Svi Mykhailiuk suggested Oubre wouldn't wind up wearing Kelly green in the upcoming campaign, Philadelphia's adding an individual who generated 20.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 steals last season on a veteran minimum contract is a quality addition.

However, the outlook on this move varies depending on what happens with James Harden, including what the Sixers get back if they trade him.

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