Boston Celtics Need to Fix Remaining Holes in Defense
By Ian Riaf
Adding a quick, high energy and versatile rim protector would improve the already talented Celtic defense
While a disappointing game seven finish might have left Boston Celtics fans in a state of bewilderment. The team proved that it can compete at a high-level, demonstrating that it was a step ahead of young up-and-coming teams like the Bucks and 76ers. The Celtics were just one poor three-point shooting game away from advancing to the conference finals.
The Celtics, on paper, were one of the best defensive teams this season. They ranked amongst the top teams in defensive net rating and limiting second-chance points. They continued this defensive intensity into the postseason.
Players simply stepped up defensively. Players like Marcus Morris and Semi Ojeleye applied serious pressure to opposing threats like LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
More from Hardwood Houdini
- 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?
Even with Daniel Theis returning to the lineup, the Celtics are still in need of a young, quick and versatile defensive big man. While Al Horford proved himself as one of the top defensive big men in the league, the Celtics would clearly benefit from a high energy, athletic rim protector.
They need a player similar to the likes of Jordan Bell. A player who can both challenge at the rim and switch out onto smaller guards, who not only has length and the ability to challenge opposing players vertically but also has the foot speed to keep up with perimeter players.
Given his limited playing time during the postseason, the Celtics will likely part ways with Greg Monroe. There is also no clear indication if the Celtics will re-sign Aron Baynes who struggled to keep up with faster big men throughout the regular season and especially during the playoffs.
How should the Celtics go about finding a quick and athletic rim protector?
Sadly, this summer free agency might not be the best option. Athletic bigs are in high demand and thus command a high market price. Unrestricted free agents like Jerami Grant, Nerlens Noel, and Ed Davis would be viable options for the Celtics at a low price. Unfortunately, all three will likely sign lucrative to semi-lucrative deals, deals the Celtics simply could not afford.
The Celtics could also go the draft route. This would likely be a better option. While talented guards like Donte DiVincenzo, Jalen Brunson and Aaron Holiday might be available at this stage of the draft, the Celtics might also want to consider going for need over best available talent in order to avoid a logjam in the backcourt.
Who could the Celtics draft?
One option is Mitchell Robinson. Robinson was ranked 11th in ESPN’s draft class. He is an athletic 7-footer who, according to many scouts, has incredible upside. That being said, Robinson played 0 games in college and also withdrew from the NBA combine. He might be too risky a choice, but his length and athleticism gives the Celtics something they don’t currently have
Gary Clark out of Cincinnati might be a better option. Clark, who more of a late second round talent, is listed at 6’8’. He was the AAC defensive player of the year and averaged over a block and a steal per game in his senior season. He is much more polished than Robinson but his upside isn’t nearly as high. More of a wing player, Clark can also challenge shots in the paint and make his presence known. Clark, who many believe will go undrafted or late in the second round, can provide the Celtics with defensive versatility.
Lastly, USC’s Chimezie Metu is another potential option. Many draft boards have him going in the early-to-mid second-round. A solid perimeter defender, Metu provides defensive versatility as his frame allows him to move fluidly up and down the court. Finishing 4th in blocks in the PAC 12, the 6’11’ Trojan is a capable two-way player and might be the best possible fit. His ceiling might not be as high as Robinson’s, but he has the ability to contribute immediately on the defensive side of the floor.
To conclude, the Celtics are in an interesting position. As it stands now, they are a very deep team with tremendous defensive versatility. If they keep the same roster they will likely be able to go around 11-to-12 men deep on a night-to-night basis. Still, they need a versatile quick shot blocker who can provide defensive energy off the bench. Hopefully, the Celtics will take into account their needs for the upcoming draft.