7 Role players Celtics could target to complement Jayson Tatum

 6. Nick Richards

Nick Richards has had a career year with the Charlotte Hornets, as he’s made the most of Charlotte’s lost season. The 7-foot big man has averaged 10 points, eight rebounds, 1.3 blocks, 69.2 percent from the field, and 69.4 percent on two-pointers, which are all personal bests.

Richards is largely still raw, as his overall basketball IQ isn’t quite where one would hope. It could all just be a matter of a need for a change of scenery.

It could also be that Charlotte has thrown him into a role in which he’s been forced to do things that aren’t quite his niche. For example, Richards has been forced to be the Hornets’ primary rim protector, whereas he should only be providing that in spurts. It’s also tough to provide formidable defense on a team devoid of defenders, like Charlotte.

Richards’ contract makes him even more valuable, as he has two years remaining on his deal, albeit only one year is fully guaranteed at $5 million. The Hornets were entertaining trade talks for the 26-year-old at the deadline and figure to do the same in the offseason.

For a team strapped for cash, like the Celtics, Richards could be a perfect addition.