Evaluating Whether Celtics Should Sign 3-Time NBA Champion

The Boston Celtics must fill at least one of their two openings for a full-time roster spot. It's a safe bet they won't push past the second apron to do so. The franchise is currently $4.2 million from crossing that threshold, per Spotrac.

The C's recently worked out a trio of forwards and a former Slam Dunk Contest winner. The door also remains open for Blake Griffin to return. This author has repeatedly stated he believes a reunion with the latter seems like the direction Boston should go in.

The six-time All-Star was effective in his role, logging 16 starts, including burying 5/8 threes and generating 15 points in a February win against the Philadelphia 76ers. He also has the locker room's respect, can act as another coach of sorts, and had a positive impact on the work environment.

But other intriguing options are still available on the open market. And if the Celtics want to add more depth at center to help navigate the regular season, perhaps they should look to JaVale McGee, who recently got waived by the Dallas Mavericks, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

The three-time champion struggled to earn playing time under Jason Kidd, appearing in 42 games and logging 8.5 minutes per contest. The 35-year-old averaged 4.4 points and 2.5 rebounds.

However, the seven-foot-center generated 9.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game as a member of the Phoenix Suns in 2021-22.

Kristaps Porzingis, Robert Williams, and Al Horford can all play the pivot, and any combination featuring two of them can work effectively. They could even experiment with playing the trio together, a trial made easier if they utilize a zone defense.

Boston also has Luke Kornet, who can step up when one of the three mentioned above is out, just like he did when one or both of the latter two were inactive in 2022-23.

If the C's want to add another center, signing McGee, hoping to help him recapture his production in Phoenix, albeit in a limited role resembling the one he had in Dallas, makes sense. But to reiterate, bringing back Griffin seems like it would prove more valuable.

Further Reading

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Celtics Keeping the Door Open for a Blake Griffin Reunion

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