Boston Celtics: 3 RFAs Cs should avoid this offseason

RFA #3 the Boston Celtics should look to avoid this offseason: Lauri Markkanen

As good as Ainge’s “shooting with size” motto is, it needs some context. The Boston Celtics should not be looking to add any more defensive liabilities. Ideally, the Cs starting five should consist of zero defensive liabilities, so it is harder for coaches to scheme against them.

Even with Evan Fournier, a neutral defender in the regular season but a slight negative in the postseason, the Celtics are more than equipped to combat elite offenses unless they shell out on defensive liabilities like Lauri Markkanen.

The Boston Celtics severely lacked consistent shooting in their frontcourt last season, so logically one might assume Markkanen would be a good addition. They would be wrong. Markkanen struggled in Chicago with a minor role and crippled the Bulls defense next to Vucevic.

Even before the All-Star center got there, Markkanen was causing problems on both ends. He is not the kind of shooter the Celtics want, and more importantly, he is not the kind of player the Cs want to pay.

The Boston Celtics should take a hint here. It is unknown what Lauri Markkanen will receive in restricted free agency, but it is known that the Bulls will not match it. They want nothing to do with Markkanen as they build around Lavine and give Thad Young more touches.

If the Bulls don’t want you, chances are neither will any other contender, which the Boston Celtics are hoping to be this coming season.