Boston Celtics: 3 C’s that underwhelmed during the 2019-20 season
By Mark Nilon
Vincent Poirier
First on our list we have a player our very own Andrew Hughes was excited to see suit up for for the Boston Celtics in 2019-20.
Upon his signing, Andrew and many other figures in the media were excited to see what Vincent Poirier could bring to the team after having himself a solid season for Spanish club Saski Baskonia. Through 34 games in 2018-19, the 7-0 French born center averaged 11.9 points, a Euroleague leading 8.3 boards and just under a block per game on an impressive 61 percent shooting from the floor.
With his play, Danny Ainge and the C’s front office made it known they wished to bring Poirier to Boston. It was seen by many that he would be a nice scoring and rebounding presence for a front court rotation that recently became weaker thanks to the departures of Aron Baynes (trade) and Al Horford (free agency).
After making it know he did not wish to come to the NBA to simply ride the bench, he opted to ink a two-year deal with the shamrocks in early July.
Interestingly enough, however, since this fateful day riding the bench has seemingly been all he’s done for the team.
Attaining just 5.4 minutes per game in 21 outings, the big man has mustered averages of just 1.9 points and 1.6 rebounds on 49 percent shooting from the field. And, sure, one could sit there and say his lack of production could be directly correlated his lack of playing time, but when watching the games it’s apparent that he has done nothing to prove he is deserving of any more playing time.
Coming into the season, people saw him as a potentially solid scoring option for the team… turns out, he’s reluctant to shoot.
Coming into the season, people saw him as a solid presence down low to grab rebounds… turns out, he can’t bang down low to grab a board.
We’re not saying Vincent Poirier has no talent; in fact, we think he has the skill set to truly be a long lasting contributor in this league. The problem we’ve seen with him is his lack of aggression and timid play style.
A scoring option who doesn’t look for his shot and a seven footer who can’t crash the boards is a bit worrisome of a sight to see. At 26 years old, by no means are we saying the team should give up on Poirier. However, it must be noted, he certainly hasn’t impressed anyone with his play in 2019-20.