Celts
It didn't take long for the Celtics to strengthen their frontcourt for the 2024-25 season.
Just minutes after the official start of NBA Free Agency on Sunday evening, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Celtics has signed substitute player Luke Kornet to a one-year contract.
Just just a few hours later Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that The Celtics also agreed to a multi-year contract with Neemias Queta.
Both signings ahead of NBA free agent fever are two proactive moves by Brad Stevens because the Celtics need reinforcements on offense with Kristaps Porzingis (ankle surgery) expected to be out for the beginning of the 2024-25 season.
While Boston has some options on offense and Al Horford is predicted to be back next season, Joe Mazzulla and the Celtics may also need to concentrate to the playing time of Horford, who turned 38 earlier this month.
Kornet established himself as a invaluable backup option for the Celtics last season, averaging 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds in 63 games (seven starts). The 28-year-old center provided invaluable depth for Boston in 2023-24, largely on account of his 7-foot-10 height.
The Celtics are counting on the continued development of Queta, who turns 25 on July 13. The Portuguese played in 28 games for Boston within the 2023/24 season, averaging 5.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 11.9 minutes per game.
Queta, who stands 7 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 250 kilos, has been a useful addition for Boston, especially when each Porzingis and Horford were unavailable.
Since the Celtics are already above the second level of the NBA's recent collective bargaining agreement, their ability to usher in external reinforcements via free agency this summer is severely limited.
However, Boston is prone to return to its full starting lineup and key substitutes within the 2024/25 season, especially with the return of Kornet and Queta.
Stevens and the Celtics still have some decisions to make regarding Xavier Tillman and Svi Mykhailiuk, each of whom are unrestricted free agents. Oshae Brissett reportedly declined his player option and may also turn into a free agent this offseason.
image credit : www.boston.com