7 Free agents who should be on Celtics' summer wish list
By Tyler Watts
The Boston Celtics are the team to beat this season. They have the best record in the NBA and a roster nobody wants to face in the playoffs. The defending champion Nuggets won’t give up the crown easily, and the Celtics may need to make a few tweaks to knock them off. Boston is a feared team that is just getting started.
They added Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday in the offseason to create the best top six in the world. Holiday has a player option this summer, but Boston is expected to bring him back. Barring a disaster, things should be even better in year two, and the Celtics will be able to upgrade their depth.
Boston has at least three players becoming free agents, and the front office will go after ring chasers in free agency. The Celtics are projected to be over the second tax apron, which leaves them with just minimum contracts to add talent. Here are a few names worth targeting.
7. Kris Dunn
The former top-five draft pick remade his career with the Utah Jazz. Dunn was viewed as a bust and virtually out of the league before a ten-day contract in 2023. The 6’3 guard showcased his defensive chops and improved jumper to stick with the franchise.
His numbers won’t blow fans away, but the 30-year-old can make plays, defend on the ball, and has shot over 41 percent from 3-point range since joining the Jazz. Dunn has played in just five career playoff games, but he may decide to chase a role on a contender in free agency this summer.
The Boston Celtics could use a defensive-minded guard to back up Derrick White and Holiday. Payton Pritchard provides offense but is a defensive liability. The Cs could look for a change of pace in free agency, and Dunn is not their only option.