Popular free agent Boston Celtics veteran ‘could join team later’: Report

Popular veteran Boston Celtics free agent Blake Griffin isn’t expected to join the team ahead of the 2023-24 season according to MassLive’s Brian Robb — but he could end up joining the team later on during the season.

“Based on who the Celtics sign ahead of camp, the door could remain open for Griffin to join the team later if he decides to play this season seeing that the team could easily open a roster spot,” Robb prefaced before saying, “Otherwise, Boston will need to look elsewhere for added frontcourt depth.”

Griffin started 16 games for the Celtics during the 2022-23 season, averaging 8.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and two assists in over 21 minutes per game. He didn’t factor into the team’s postseason rotation, but his utility to the Cs wasn’t to be a star. It’s to be a role-playing veteran who can share with anyone younger what it takes to be a five-time All-NBA big.

Boston Celtics needs were shifted in the offseason with Kristaps Porzingis trade

In dealing for Kristaps Porzingis, the Boston Celtics front office decided to go all-in on a three-headed hydra in the frontcourt along with Al Horford and Robert Williams III; while also opening up roles in the backcourt in the process.

No longer is a big man needed on a roster with Luke Kornet already sitting on his hands waiting for minutes. Now, it’s a floor general that’s needed on the roster to replace a good portion of Marcus Smart’s playmaking.

Undoubtedly, the wing position has the most talent available on the open market, though the Celtics addressed the perimeter with Oshae Brissett. Kelly Oubre and T.J. Warren could certainly contribute to a contender, and could likely outplay Brissett for minutes.

The point guard market includes vets in the twilight of their careers like Goran Dragic and George Hill, in addition to former Power conference PGs like Kennedy Chandler, Devon Dotson, and Scotty Pippen Jr. who haven’t established themselves much in the NBA after impressive collegiate careers.

Boston could explore adding to either or both position groups, or more likely, explore adding to neither, ahead of training camp.