Boston Celtics: 3 backup center options for C’s to pursue

Boston Celtics backup center option No. 2) Mike Muscala

Mike Muscala has quietly been a productive contributor for the Oklahoma City Thunder over the past few seasons.

Despite only playing 13.5 minutes a night as the team tries to build up the value of Derrick Favors, Muscala has been one of the best shooting big men in the league.

Averaging 8.1 points per game while shooting 43.3 percent from distance on almost four attempts a game is truly impressive efficiency. On Boston, he could provide more spacing for a struggling second unit, giving room for ball-handlers to drive and kick for open looks.

Additionally, advanced stats appreciate Muscala’s play, as he ranks in the 94th percentile of all players in effective plus-minus. In other words, he’s been one of the most impactful players in the league while playing backup center minutes on a rebuilding team.

Muscala is in the first year of a two-year, $7 million deal. Turning 31 later this season, the Thunder would be smart to move on from the flourishing big man, as contenders could use extremely efficient shooting from his position.

Mike Muscala isn’t being talked about as a piece to be acquired by contenders, but his offensive ability can be the difference between a playoff victory and defeat.