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JaMychal Green Would be a Great Fit for Boston

By Michael James

Feb 4, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward JaMychal Green (0) reacts during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Grizzlies won 107-99. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward JaMychal Green (0) reacts during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Grizzlies won 107-99. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /
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If the Celtics don’t land any big free agents, JaMychal Green would fit right in to Brad Stevens system.

The Celtics have the ability to get to max cap space this summer where they can sign players like Gordon Hayward and Blake Griffin. They’ll surely go after players of that caliber, but what happens if they don’t land a big fish?

They’ve already improved their team from last year with the additions of Jayson Tatum and Semi Ojeleye in the draft, so there is an argument to just run it back with what they have, or try to make a trade instead of a signing. They could also go after a lower level free agent like Green as someone who fits exactly what they want to do.

Green is a restricted free agent this summer, and has been given his qualifying offer from the Grizzlies. Memphis will have the ability to match any offer for Green that other teams offer, so acquiring the big man will all depend on how the Grizzlies value their player.

Zach Randolph was the Grizzlies’ starting power forward for years next to Marc Gasol, but new coach David Fizdale made a change his year. He decided to bring Randolph off the bench and start Green to throw a more modern look with his front court.

Green did well when given the opportunity, averaging a career high in points and rebounds. He also showed off an improved three point stroke, making 55 threes at a 38% clip.

At 6’9″, Green is a versatile player on both sides of the floor that can stretch defenses and guard multiple positions. That kind of player is exactly what the Celtics are looking for at the power forward position next to Al Horford. Green would come in right away and have a spot in the starting lineup and would certainly help the Celtics towards their goal of getting to the NBA Finals next season.

The problem with signing Green would be that the Grizzlies will likely match any offer that isn’t ridiculously high. Even though the Celtics have a lot of cap space, they can’t be spending it all on a player like Green. The only way I think Boston ends up with Green is if the Grizzlies let him walk because he tells them that he doesn’t want to come back. Even then I’d anticipate a sign and trade.

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Hopefully the Celtics come away with a player they really want. No matter who it is, as long as a player Stevens and Ainge really like ends up signing, then fans should be pleased. Hayward would be great, but there are other free agents out there like Green that fit exactly what the Celtics like to do and could be solid back up plans if the big fish don’t come to Boston.