Monday, the Atlanta Hawks reportedly lost Henri Veesar to a season-ending ACL tear. That's according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
The former North Carolina star was the 22nd pick in the second round of this year's NBA Draft. The seven-footer from Estonia would've given Atlanta a promising young center to develop. He was also supposed to solidify the club's depth at that position.
Now that Veesar is apparently out for the year, one would think that the Hawks will seek to add another center. That could lead to calling the Boston Celtics about Luka Garza's availability.
The Celtics should not trade Luka Garza
The five-year veteran is coming off a strong showing at FIBA this summer. It's an ideal springboard to prepare him for the upcoming campaign. It's also a great way for him to build on what he accomplished last season.
Garza came to Boston to prove that he belongs in the NBA. He did just that. Even after being out of the rotation, Joe Mazzulla knows that when he calls the former Iowa star's number, he'll provide shooting, generate extra possessions, and set impactful screens. It's a package that comes with relentless energy. The 27-year-old from the nation's capital puts everything he has into every second he's on the floor.
And just as the Hawks can now use a third center, Garza represents valuable depth for the Celtics.
Mitchell Robinson hasn't played in more than 60 games since the 2021-22 season. The former New York Knicks center is an exciting addition. His impact goes beyond what gets discussed the most. However, Boston must be prepared for the times when he isn't in the lineup. In recent years, that has lasted for extended stretches. And while Neemias Queta was durable in his first season as a starter, it's another scenario the organization must be equipped for.
What if the Hawks overpay to trade for Luka Garza?
No one is untouchable. That's more theoretical, though. For example, the chances of an offer enticing the Celtics to trade Jayson Tatum this season are as close to zero as they can get.
However, if Atlanta makes a compelling enough proposal, then yes, it could become a situation where Boston should accept the deal. But will this Eastern Conference foe really enter that territory for Garza? He's a good player, but offering a first-round pick for him, for instance, seems improbable.
If the Hawks find a way to trade for him, then the Celtics will find themselves in the former's position. Maybe Amari Williams will step up. Chris Cenac Jr. is more of a small-ball center, but perhaps that combination could fill the void.
Still, one should be bullish on Boston's outlook for the upcoming campaign. That includes having reliable depth, like Garza. So, while Atlanta should reach out about his availability, this author expects him to remain with the Celtics as the third member of the team's center triumvirate.
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