Boston Celtics: “Pass or pursue” on 3 impending free agents
By Mark Nilon
Free Agent Target No. 1) Paul Millsap
All year long we’ve discussed how the Boston Celtics seriously need to tend to their relatively underwhelming front-court rotation. Though they opted to pass up on doing so during the regular season, the offseason could prove to be a fine time to look into bolstering their talent down low.
Though we’ve previously discussed various options in which the shamrocks could consider during the impending free agency period, one name keeps popping its head towards the forefront: Paul Millsap.
Playing through the final months of his 3-year, $90M contract, the seasoned forward is at the mid-way point of his 30’s (will be 36 by the third month of the 2020-21 season) and is heading into unrestricted free-agency in search of what could be his last contract.
Throughout this year’s campaign, Millsap has managed to stay quite productive despite seeing his lowest minutes-per-game averages since his second season in the NBA. In 24.4 minutes per game, the 14-year-veteran is posting 12 points, 5.9 rebounds, and about a half a block per game on 49 percent shooting from the floor and 44 percent shooting from deep a night.
Though showing signs of lessened mobility and acceleration — as expected as one ages — the 4x All-Star has still proven capable of providing quality production for his respective squad (sixth-best offensive and defensive rating on the team).
With his skill set coupled with his substantial experience both in the regular season and in the postseason (10 playoff appearances, six of which saw deep runs) a guy like Millsap would be a fantastic addition to any team in need of bolstering their frontcourt depth.
Add in the fact that he likely could be had with the league’s taxpayer Mid-Level Exception and you have all the more reason to pursue such a talent. Cost-efficient and fantastic fit in the Boston Celtics’ system?
Sign me up!