Celtics Would Benefit from Acquiring a Rim Protector
By Ian Riaf
The Boston Celtics are in need of a defensive stopper as the trade deadline approaches.
The Boston Celtics are on a roll this season as they currently rank second in the Eastern Conference. Even with various injuries to key players such as Al Horford and Avery Bradley, the Celtics have continued their impressive winning ways.
That being said, the Celtics are struggling on the defensive end of the floor. The Celtics, rank 23rd in blocks having given up around 106 points per game. Rebounding is also a crucial part to playing defense in the NBA, an area in which the Celtics have also struggled. They currently rank third worst in total rebounds per game and fourth worst in defensive rebounds per game.
This lack of defensive pressure down low needs to change for the Celtics as they enter into the All-Star break. Adding a rim protector who can both rebound and provide an intimidating force down low will help the Celtics come playoff time.
More from Celtics News
- Boston Celtics’ two-way contract decision will be made after training camp
- Proposed trade sends Boston Celtics playoff killer to the Cs from rival
- ‘Face of Germany’s stunning run’ in FIBA World Cup not the only ex-Boston Celtics player to win gold
- Proposed Boston Celtics trade target pitched for reunion with fired coach
- Battle For Banner 18: Will Boston Celtics battle historical foe in 2024 Finals?
While Amir Johnson and Horford are considered the Celtics best rim protectors, they struggled this season adding a defensive presence down low. Both average less than six defensive rebounds per game. In addition, both average under one block a game. The Celtics need more production in this area as they move forward this season.
While Tyler Zeller is a capable rebounder, but he is not known for being a rim protector. Jordan Mickey is a developing young prospect although he is still raw and needs to become a more complete player.
Players who could come off the bench to help the Celtics on the interior include players such as:
Meyers Leonard:
A talented, young, and athletic post player on the Trailblazers. Leonard can contribute on both ends of the floor. He had a breakout season last year but has regressed in his production due to lack of playing time.
Alex Len:
Len is another young prospect who has seen a reduction in minutes while coming off the bench for the Suns. In less than 20 minutes of playing time. Len averages over six rebounds and over a block per game. His height makes him an imposing force down low.
Salah Mejri:
Mejri is a 7’2” rim protector for the Mavericks. He has the capability of providing a defensive presence in the paint. While he is raw offensively, his height and leaping ability make him a quality backup center.
Richaun Holmes:
Holmes is another young player who can rebound and also protect the paint. He has an all-around skill set as he can contribute on both sides of the floor. His lack of playing time could be part due to the logjam of talented centers within the 76ers system.
Next: Marcus Smart Reaching Untouchable Status
The Celtics need to be on the lookout for an athletic rim protecter who can help with the defensive struggles as well as provide energy off the bench. Look for the Celtics to make a move to improve their defensive core prior to the All-Star break.