Boston Celtics: “Pass or Pursue” on 7 recently rumored TPE targets
By Mark Nilon
Potential TPE target for Boston Celtics No. 3) John Collins, Atlanta Hawks
Like we said, you’re going to be seeing a lot of familiar faces from past HH publications on this list.
John Collins is a guy we like to talk about quite often. Luckily, Hartwell included him within his article, thus giving us yet another excuse to talk about the idea of him joining the Boston Celtics once more.
Citing the fact that the power forward and the Atlanta Hawks are far apart on trade talks, Collins could theoretically find himself available on the trading block, and the Cs should be very interested if this happens:
"Collins apparently is angling for a maximum contract extension, which may be too rich for the Hawks’ blood. The two sides want to make things work, but if next week’s extension deadline passes without a new deal, the Celtics should be very interested. Collins is one of the league’s most talented young big men and would give Boston the legitimate frontcourt scorer it lacked last season."
Earlier this month we discussed how Danny Ainge and co. should strongly using their TPE on Collins is he ever were to become available and, at this moment in time, our reasoning remains completely the same:
"During the 2019-20 season, the big man averaged 21.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game on 58 percent shooting from the floor and 40 percent shooting from deep."
"Fitting the bill both in stature (6-9, 235-pounds) and play style (athletic stretch big who thrives on the boards and can defend the rim) of what Brad Stevens typically looks for in the five, the third-year talent would very likely thrive running in Boston’s scheme."
With all this said, wouldn’t you also agree that John Collins coming to the Boston Celtics would be a fantastic move for the franchise?