The Boston Celtics are in need of a big man, and they might have lucked out with a recent move.
Over the past few weeks, the Celtics have been mentioned in numerous trade rumors, eventually resulting in the team trading away Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. While the team has plenty of guards to deal with Holiday’s departure, Porzingis’ spot is still a problem.
Without Porzingis on the roster, the Celtics could be left without a starting-quality big man if Al Horford and Luke Kornet bolt in free agency, which is certainly on the table. However, if they can get a solid big man for cheap, they could be in business next season down low.
On Sunday night, the Portland Trail Blazers agreed to a buyout with big man Deandre Ayton, clearing the way for him to become a top free agent. Ayton, the 2018 No. 1 pick, has had a rocky career, but he could still be an option for a team in a pinch at center like Boston.
In Bleacher Report’s ranking of Ayton’s potential destination, the Celtics made the cut at No. 4. As Andy Bailey noted, the Celtics would likely have to shed more salary to make this happen, but given their need for a big, it might be worth the trouble.
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Last season, Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds while playing in 40 games for the Blazers. Although his stock is at the lowest of his career, the former NBA Finals starter could be in a position to make an impact again next season.
