JUST IN: Boston Celtics Targets Free Agent 5 top rated Potential
June 30th signals the beginning of NBA free agency. Fresh from their NBA championship victory, the Boston Celtics have no obvious roster gaps and aim to finalize their lineup. However, their spending power is limited to minimum contracts because of second-apron tax constraints. Here are five free agents the Celtics could consider targeting.
5 Potential Free Agent Targets For The Boston Celtics
Andre Drummond
With Xavier Tillman and Luke Kornet as free agents, the Celtics might be looking for some center reinforcements. It’s likely they will re-sign one but not both. Andre Drummond, known for his elite rebounding, solid interior scoring, and defense, could be a great addition. Last year with the Bulls, Drummond averaged 8.4 points and 9.7 rebounds. At this stage in his 12-year career, Drummond is likely focused on winning a championship and would be willing to play any role. He would provide the Celtics with quality minutes off the bench and a valuable veteran presence.
Justin Holiday
Justin Holiday, the brother of Jrue Holiday, has an instant connection with the Celtics. Known for his high-level wing defense and energy, Justin would play a role similar to Oshae Brissett, who might leave in free agency. At 35, on a team already loaded with wings, Holiday wouldn’t see a lot of playing time. However, as a 2015 NBA Champion, he is seeking another opportunity to win a title. Playing alongside his brother makes the Celtics an ideal destination for him.
Kris Dunn
The Celtics showed interest in Kris Dunn at the trade deadline. Dunn would provide Boston with a big guard and high-level point-of-attack defender off the bench. Additionally, he’s a capable playmaker, averaging 3.8 assists. Growing up in Connecticut and attending Providence College gives him a regional connection to the Celtics. Notably, according to Basketball Index metrics, Dunn ranks as a top ten point-of-attack defender in the league. Having been on a minimum contract, Dunn would likely be willing to sign another, especially with the opportunity to compete for a title.
The top 10 point of attack defenders in D-LEBRON
1. Alex Caruso
2. Jalen Suggs
3. Dyson Daniels
4. Derrick White
5. Matisse Thybulle
6. Kyle Lowry
7. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
8. Kris Dunn
9. De'Anthony Melton
10. Vince Williams Jr.Point of attack explainer⬇️ pic.twitter.com/iD1bIRs1Y5
— BBall Index (@The_BBall_Index) April 25, 2024
Alec Burks
The Celtics should consider the possibility of acquiring Alec Burks from the rival Knicks. Burks is a veteran guard who could add another dimension to the Celtics’ bench as a high-scoring guard. Although he received DNPs in the playoffs with the Knicks until several injuries forced him into the starting lineup, Burks excelled in these opportunities, averaging 17.8 points in the second round against the Pacers, including a 26-point outburst in Game 7. If given the chance, Burks could provide the Celtics’ bench with a solid scoring punch. If not, he has shown he’s willing to play any role asked of him. Additionally, the chance to win a championship is appealing to a 13-year veteran.
Goga Bitadze
Goga Bitadze might be the hidden gem of this year’s free agency class. While his per-game averages of 5.0 points and 4.6 rebounds don’t stand out, he provided the Magic with solid 15 minutes per game, including 33 starts. Bitadze’s skillset as a high-IQ big man and solid defender makes him a great fit for the Celtics’ bench. With Tillman and Kornet as free agents, the Celtics will likely be looking for another big man. Bitadze could be the perfect center for the Celtics to target in free agency.