Come on guys, don’t laugh I’m serious.
Well, maybe not fully serious, but I refuse to stop speculating until this 15th roster spot is filled! So, if you want all of this crazy speculation to stop, talk to Danny Ainge. He’s the only one who can end the madness.
On a more serious note, the 40 year-old basketball player has announced his desire to return to the NBA after playing 6 seasons in China.
When Stephon Marbury started his NBA career, he was touted as one of the best up-and-comers at the time. As his career progressed, he matured into a 2-time All Star.
He was able to maintain a high level of production from his rookie season all the way to 2007-08 — he slightly declined from 05′-07′, but he was still productive. In every season of his career, Marbury averaged double-digit scoring and at least 4 assists. Well, that is with the exception of the 2008-09 season where he suited up for the Celtics.
During his run with the C’s he posted career low’s in points, assists, rebounds field goal percentage and even free throw percentage (3.8 PPG, 3.3 APG, 1.2 RPG, 34 FG% and 46 FT%). Not exactly what you would call a “good season.”
His outing with the Celtics, combined with complaints of his “ball hog” style of play (side note: he was rated the 2nd biggest ball hog of all-time by Complex) took him out of the NBA.
Without a place in the league, Marbury went to China in an effort to revive his career. He did that, and much more.
During his time in China he became a legend winning 2 Chinese Basketball Association titles, making several All-Star appearances and capturing an MVP trophy. His team, the Beijing Ducks, even made a statue of him in the lawn of their arena.
In his first four season overseas, Marbury never averaged less than 22 points per game, with his best season seeing him average 29.5 points. Marbury’s production faded in his last two seasons to roughly 16 points per game.
Still, Marbury was remained productive, which warrants the question: should the Celtics consider signing Marbury?
I realize there is a lot going against Marbury when you factor in his age, declining play in China, previous NBA flop and fit with the Celtics.
While these may all be legitimate arguments, it is important to note that he would be signed to the 15th roster spot. A limited role where he would be used similar to Gerald Green last year.
This basically means that if the C’s were to sign Marbury, all he would need to do is provide scoring during the playoffs. From what he’s shown in China, this may be perfect for him.
In the four seasons Marbury made the CBA Playoffs he upped his level of play, scoring an average of 26 points per game in the playoffs.
If Marbury could produce in a spark-plug type of role, he could be valuable to the Celtics.
Next: Boston Celtics Second Unit Priority: Offense or Defense
Despite the optimism, I still find it highly unlikely for the Celtics to sign Marbury. I mean, why would you sign an older version of Gerald Green, when you could just sign Green himself?
Nevertheless, it would be cool to see Starbury’s back on the NBA hardwood.
So, what do you think? Should the Celtics consider signing Marbury?
Comment below and let me know your thoughts!