Boston Celtics: 3 options to replace Tristan Thompson in starting lineup

Boston Celtics replacement option No. 2) Franz Wagner

Next up, we have the NBA Draft route where, though the Boston Celtics are primed for a latter selection in the first round, they could still find some quality talents who could find themselves contributing from day one.

One specific player that has been linked to the Cs in the past as a potential draft-day target is Michigan standout sophomore, Franz Wagner.

Though listed as a power forward, the 19-year-old possesses a 6-9, 220-pound frame and great defensive instincts that could help him hold his own on the defensive side of the game as a small-ball five while his offensive skillset could have him absolutely thrive.

Proving to be a fantastic play-maker whilst serving as the top-dog for his Wolverines, the German-born baller went on to post per-game averages of 12.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, three assists, 1.3 steals, and a block on 56 percent shooting from inside the arc, and 34 percent shooting from beyond.

Now, to many, the idea of using Wagner as a center may seem a bit perplexing, as he’s only really be utilized as a three or four (sometimes even as a big-ball two).

However, with the modern NBA leaning towards a predominantly offensive game with positionless basketball, we have begun to see many instances of experimental lineups of such nature and, with the fact that Boston could use for some serious improvements to their offensive flow in the starting unit alongside the Jays, adding a playmaker like Wagner could be an interesting route to consider.

With him in as a small-ball center, the seemingly stagnant and predictable offensive production from the Cs could easily find itself picking up momentum.

Again, it may be a bit far-fetched to consider at first, but, remember, Brad Stevens has not yet shied away from using traditional forwards (and even Marcus Smart at times, mind you) at the team’s center slot.