The Celtics saw how close they could get to an NBA title when they lost in six games to the Warriors. While Boston’s depth was enough to get them to the NBA Finals, its lack of quality bench players eventually doomed them against a much deeper Golden State squad.
It’s why the Celtics are now onto an intriguing offseason, one where Boston president Brad Stevens said they’re looking for more consistent scoring off the bench. While the C’s stayed mostly silent in the 2022 NBA Draft, selecting JD Davison at 53rd overall, free agency opens up next week. That’s where Boston can pick up some ring-chasing veterans who can shore up depth.
The Celtics haven’t been known as an ideal free agent destination compared to other big markets, but winning changes that. Boston does have the taxpayer mid-level exception at its disposal come free agency, and some older players could sign on for the veteran’s minimum. C’s coach Ime Udoka knows what that process is like, where contenders pick up a few valuable extra pieces.
“Great players attract others and talk to each other throughout the season and the offseason,” Udoka said. “Just watching us on that stage and the growth of our young guys, that’s appealing to other players. When you have guys like Jaylen (Brown), Jayson (Tatum) — guys who have a bright future — you start to look at longevity and consistency across the board.”
Udoka saw that type of recruitment go on during his time in San Antonio, when guys like LaMarcus Aldridge and David West joined for a chance at a ring. In more recent terms, Brooklyn got some veteran boosts last offseason when Patty Mills, Blake Griffin and others were looking for opportunities to win.
The Celtics’ current core is set. But that’s where a reliable veteran can come in off the bench and be a contributor. If the C’s also find someone who can help keep Al Horford fresh throughout the regular season, that’s just another benefit. Boston has some talented bench guys in the likes of Grant Williams, Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, and that’s where Udoka said they’re looking for internal growth from their players.
Free agency opens up June 30. The Celtics haven’t had much time to rest considering their season June 17. But Udoka said that’s an honor to be playing that late in the season as they look to get back on top of the Eastern Conference.
“Few things we try to do is put the product on the floor that’s appealing to guys, try to play as a team,” Udoka said. “Myself as a coach, I have relationships around the league and that’s a benefit as well. Anytime you see guys on that stage doing what they’re doing at a young age, it starts to look like that for other guys.”
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