Boston Celtics: 2 replacements for Javonte Green this offseason

Josh Green

There’s no easier way to replace a Javonte Green than to find someone with the same last name and initials. All joking aside, Josh Green qualifies as a suitable replacement for the 26-year-old for a multitude of reasons.

First off, the Boston Celtics wouldn’t need to figure out how to fit a free agent in their plans. The C’s already have three upcoming first round picks that they will need to integrate into the roster. With roster space already limited between their two-way contracted guys and the incoming draft picks, using a draft slot on a guy who could replace Green’s athleticism and upside is prudent at worst.

Secondly, the Arizona product has high upside as an across the board threat. Green averaged 12 points, five rebounds and three assists during his abbreviated freshman year on 36 percent shooting from the 3-point line.

Those numbers don’t indicate the highest of ceilings for Green, but the C’s don’t need another superstar who needs the ball in his hands. Between Kemba Walker, Jayson Tatum and even second unit players like Marcus Smart and Enes Kanter, Boston needs players who are okay playing off the ball.

Green is passive enough to fit into what the Celtics are going for next season and beyond. Given the C’s found Javonte Green as a journeyman free agent, drafting his replacement in the first round of the draft out of one of the NCAA’s strongest conferences (Pac-12) would be a boon for Ainge and the C’s front office.