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Boston Celtics: 3 players who won’t be in Boston next season

By Andrew DiIorio

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 08: Tacko Fall #99 of the Boston Celtics dribbles against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden on January 08, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Wizards 116-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 08: Tacko Fall #99 of the Boston Celtics dribbles against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden on January 08, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Wizards 116-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Semi Ojeleye, Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Semi Ojeleye, Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Boston Celtics’ Player #2: Semi Ojeleye

Spending all four years of his NBA career in Celtic green, Semi Ojeleye is a free agent this offseason, and will likely be off the team. Showing potential as a 3-and-D wing, Ojeleye has never been able to play consistently well on either side of the court, leading to frustration from Celtics fans and coaching staff alike.

Ojeleye had his best year stats-wise this season, averaging 4.6 points and 2.6 rebounds on 36.7% shooting from distance. His sole purpose on the offensive end is to stand in the corner and shoot threes – if he can’t do that at an efficient rate, then the team is practically playing 4-on-5. This was the case in many situations this year, as opposing teams were daring Semi to shoot.

On the defensive end, although he has always had the reputation of being a good defender, he has never been the best of the best, unable to keep up with ball-handlers in space. In post defense, he has always excelled with his unbelievable core strength but has trouble on the perimeter.

This is most definitely not the worst outcome from a second-round draft pick, but after four years of the Ojeleye experiment, it is time to look in a different direction, especially with more rookies and free-agent signings coming into the fold.

Boston Celtics’ Player #3: Kemba Walker

The hot topic of this offseason – what will happen with Kemba Walker? With two years left on his max contract, it will not be an easy trade to construct, but all signs point to Walker being a scapegoat for the Celtics’ failures this season.

Despite only seeing minor declines in his stats – 19.3 points per game on 42% shooting and 36% from deep – Walker struggled in nationally televised games throughout the year, not showing up on the biggest stage. His inconsistency has been more frustrating than anything, not giving Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown a reliable third star to count on, as some nights he’ll score in the single digits on inefficient shooting.

Additionally, his injury situation is extremely concerning for the Celtics, as he had to be load-managed throughout the season. He was sidelined once again in the playoffs, making everyone question his availability and durability for seasons to come. Surely, the Boston Celtics would love to move Kemba for a more reliable third star, but what team has that to offer?

Ideas revolving around Kristaps Porzingis have gained steam over the past week after his playoff woes. A trade for Damian Lillard seems almost impossible if Kemba Walker is the returning piece.

Either way, Walker has shaped up to be the scapegoat for a disappointing season for the historic Celtics. The fans and front office want change, and Walker is the most expendable piece to the C’s core.

Don’t be surprised if Kemba is wearing a different jersey come next season.

Next. 3 mutually beneficial Kemba Walker trades. dark