The Atlanta Hawks waived Charles Bassey on Saturday, per Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN. As Bobby Marks of ESPN pointed out, the impetus for the move is that 5 p.m. EST is the deadline to waive a player on a non-guaranteed contract without absorbing a per-day cap hit. The full salary would count on the team's books, including when it comes to the luxury tax and aprons.
Bassey impressed during the preseason. Most notably, he stuffed the stat sheet with seven points, 17 rebounds, five blocks, and two steals in a one-point win over the Miami Heat.
However, center N'Faly Dante ultimately prevailed in the battle for a roster spot in Atlanta. The Hawks' decision to waive Bassey sparks questions for the Boston Celtics.
Will the Celtics bring back Bassey?
After spending the last three seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, the six-foot-10 center was a late addition to Boston's Summer League squad. He was impressive during his three-game showcase in Las Vegas.
Bassey averaged 15.3 points while shooting 70.4 percent from the field; most of those attempts came around the rim. He also grabbed 11 rebounds and blocked two shots per contest.
It was no surprise to see an NBA veteran of his talent star in that setting against a mix of rookies, NBA hopefuls, and players destined for the G League or international competition.
Thanks to his performances in Sin City, the soon-to-be 25-year-old drew international interest. However, he patiently waited and ultimately earned an NBA opportunity with the Hawks.
While he again delivered a productive showing, he now finds himself searching for his next professional home. Unfortunately for Bassey, if this author had to guess, it probably will not be in Boston.
The Celtics have a vacant roster spot. However, it seems more likely that it will remain true entering the season. That will help with maximizing tax savings.
Furthermore, a lighter, healthier Xavier Tillman Sr. again looks mobile defensively and like he will capably fill minutes in the front court. The team also has Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher, and Luka Garza. Beyond that quartet, they have second-round pick Amari Williams on a two-way deal.
So, while Bassey impressed at Summer League with the Celtics and followed that up with a positive performance with the Hawks in the preseason, if he is to land on his feet quickly, this author guesses that it means he signed elsewhere, rather than rejoining Boston.