Boston Celtics Free Agent Target: Nicolas Batum

The Celtics need more wing depth, but is adding another Jae Crowder type player the answer?

The Boston Celtics are one of the deepest teams in the NBA, but lack depth at the small forward position. Nicolas Batum, at only 27-years old, has developed into one of the best all-around players in the NBA. He has recorded five triple-doubles over his seven year career, including one this season with his current team, the Charlotte Hornets.

Batum had a down season in 2014-15 and as a result was traded from the Portland Trail Blazers. He has once again returned to his usual production this season for Charlotte, giving them 14.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and one steal per game in 35.5 minutes. He has appeared in 56 games this season, and has not dealt with major injuries in the past.

At 6’8″, Batum would give the Celtics great size. He has shown the ability to play from shooting guard to power forward, although small forward is his natural position. In 2013-14 with Portland, Batum played power forward 21 percent of the time, and this season, he has played shooting guard 46 percent of the time. It shows that he can affect the game and be used in all sorts of scenarios, something that Brad Stevens could definitely use to his advantage.

Where Batum fits in with Boston would be a task for Brad Stevens though, which makes him an interesting target nonetheless. There is no doubting his talent, he can affect the game on both sides of the ball. His career marks of a 111 offensive rating and 107 defensive rating shows how consistent he has been over his career. He also shoots the ball well from deep, a career 36 percent three-point shooter. The biggest problem is, where does he fit in with the current roster?

In a way, he is like Jae Crowder. Although, I would say he is a better passer and rebounder. Moving Crowder to the bench would give an added boost to it, without a doubt, but would it be worth it? Or could they play Batum at power forward?

The idea of playing him at power forward, while giving them more depth at small forward as well, is an intriguing idea. If Boston is able to sign a true center, someone like Al Horford or Hassan Whiteside, then it could work. He would still be a little short for the four spot, but the Celtics have been able to get away with that problem this season.

I think that Brad Stevens and the Celtics are happy with their current core starting lineup, and are more looking to bulk their frontcourt. Although, signing Batum would give the Celtics one of the most athletic starting lineups in the league, sporting Nicolas Batum at power forward would give them an edge over most teams. It would be like having their own Draymond Green.

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Batum is making about $12.2 million this season, and should get a contract of around $15-17 million with the increase of cap space. The Hornets will be trying hard to bring him back, as him and Kemba Walker are a good core to build around. It would be cheaper than signing some of the other free agents the Celtics have been linked too, but it would cause questions about how their rotation would look.

Maybe going after a true big man, like resigning Jared Sullinger, would be a better option for the power forward spot, considering Boston wouldn’t put Batum or Crowder on the bench.

Next: More Minutes for Young Players with Crowder Out

His versatility, and all-around play, has made him a very interesting addition to any team. He would give the Celtics a versatile player, something they’re lacking, but maybe not at the right position. I don’t see Danny Ainge going this route, as I think he is looking for a more traditional big man. Either way, Batum may be a steal for some team, but most likely as their starting small forward. It’s an interesting idea for the Celtics if nothing else.

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