NBA Rumors: Celtics Looking to Add Forward Depth
While all of the major free agency moves are complete, there are still some quality free agents on the market and teams looking to fill out rosters. In recent news the Boston Celtics are targeting two wing,s T.J. Warren and Lamar Stevens, to round their roster.
NBA rumors: Celtics looking to add forward depth
Report
According to a recent Shams Charania report, the Celtics are meeting with forwards TJ Warren and Lamar Stevens. After waiving Justin Champagnie earlier this month, the Celtics have two open roster spots. Both Warren and Stevens will compete for these open spots. According to the Shams report, both players will meet and have workouts with the Celtics later this week. Forward depth is a need for the Celtics, especially after the departure of Grant Williams. While adding both Warren and Stevens is a possibility, it’s more likely that the Celtics sign one of these players and target a guard for their final roster spot. With that being said, what do Warren and Stevens bring to the table?
The Pros and Cons of T.J. Warren
T.J. Warren is a nine-year NBA veteran. Warren has spent time with the Phoenix Suns, Indiana Pacers, and Brooklyn Nets. Last year, Warren played for the Nets before being shipped back to the Suns as a part of the Kevin Durant trade. In his prime, Warren was a gifted isolation scorer, averaging nearly 20 points with the Pacers in the 2019-20 season. The following season, Warren suffered a serious foot injury, which kept him sidelined for nearly two years. This past season was Warren’s first year back from the injury. Post-injury Warren lost a lot of his burst and scoring ability. Warren’s minutes dropped down to 16 per game while averaging 7 points per game. With the Celtics, Warren would likely be given even fewer minutes. However, he would provide the Celtics with some solid scoring and would round out the roster nicely.
The Pros and Cons of Lamar Stevens
Lamar Stevens is a 3rd-year player and a rock-solid defensive forward. Stevens has played all three of his seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Were established himself as a defensive stopper and a versatile 6-foot-6 forward. Last year, Stevens received 18 minutes per game last year and started in 25 games for the Cavs. Although Stevens is a capable defensive player, he needs to develop more on offense. Stevens struggles as a shooter and overall scorer while not being a playmaking threat. These offensive concerns are why Stevens hasn’t been picked up yet. However, in limited minutes with the Celtics, Stevens could be a valuable defender.
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The Last Word
Ultimately, it’s likely the Celtics will sign one of these players. Lamar Stevens is the better fit, as he would provide the Celtics with needed defense off the bench. The Celtics team is filled with scoring options, so Warren’s main draw isn’t a need. However, Warren is the bigger name and the intrigue of him returning to his previous standard might be hard for Boston to pass up. Either of these players would be a nice way for Boston to round out their roster.