The Boston Celtics want size. They have targeted defenders as a big need for the team heading into the NBA Draft and free agency. With the point guard position set, the Celtics want someone they can put under the rim and be the elite rebounder. With salary cap space and draft picks, they can go about this effort in multiple ways as several players have come up as options for the team.
The latest name circling the Celtics wagon is Mason Plumlee who could become available from the Brooklyn Nets come free agency. According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Nets are beginning to explore trade options for Plumlee who is viewed as one of the next up-and-coming big men of the league. Plumlee has excelled during the injury stint of Brook Lopez and could garner a lot of interest on the open market which includes the Boston Celtics. Stein reports that the Nets are aggressively shopping Deron Williams and Joe Johnson while hoping to bring back Lopez. Including Plumlee in a deal could be the end result.
The Celtics have already been linked to trades this offseason including one for DeMarcus Cousins. They have also eyed size in DeAndre Jordan and Kawhi Leonard. According to HardwoodHoudini.com, none of these players will be wearing green next year. The Cousins trade has already been declined and Jordan and Leonard will have competition for their services. Plumlee is an attainable option for Boston depending on the trade demand.
According to NESN.com, the Celtics are also eyeing a trade up in the NBA Draft for Willie Cauley-Stein. This may or may not be a good idea for the franchise considering Cauley-Stein is not a home run hit. The Celtics have everything they need to jump up for the defender, but do they need to? There is a clear need for Cauley-Stein's skill set, but will the price be too high for him? If the Kentucky star drops in the draft, Boston could jump, but according to the Indianapolis Star, the Packers could be selecting him at No. 11 which will to the Celtics being left out.
Boston has plenty of options for getting size. They could look at Greg Monroe, Paul Millsap or Marc Gasol as well. With Marcus Smart and Isaiah Thomas set at the point guard spot, the priority now is to get someone who can be an elite rim protector for the team. Danny Ainge is expected to explore every angel.
