While the Boston Celtics might be looking at defenders in both the NBA Draft and in free agency, they have other holes that must be filled on the roster as well. The Celtics need a dominant big man that they can place under the basket, but they also need scoring help heading into 2015. As a result, could the Celtics be a landing spot for free agents like Monta Ellis?
According to ESPNDallas.com, the Mavericks have no plans on offering Ellis a raise. While the shooter was critical to their season this year, unless he accepts the worth of his player option to the tune of $8.7 million then he is out in Dallas. The Mavericks would like if he opts in on the one-year option, but if he gets picky then Ellis hits the market and the Celtics could come calling.
According to CelticsBlog.com, Boston could be an ideal fit for Ellis as he averaged 18.9 points per game. General manager Danny Ainge told the media that he needs players who can score late in games and Ellis is that type of guy. He would pair very well the defensive mind of Marcus Smart while picking up the scoring he lacks. The issue could be money. Ellis will want a nice contract. As he approaches 30, no team will aim to offer him more than a two-year deal, especially Boston.
The Celtics are still eyeing several marquee free agents to help on defense. According to the Boston Herald, Marc Gasol, Greg Monroe, Brook Lopez and LaMarcus Aldridge all have their names at the top of the wish list and will certainly cost the team a chunk of change. Ellis cannot command too much in a deal if the Celtics are also going to sign an elite big man.
The Celtics have tradable players they could try and move in order to create space. According to CBS Boston's Brian Robb, trading Gerald Wallace and his $10.1 million salary in 2015 is a top priority for the Celtics. Jared Sullinger and Kelly Olynyk have also seen their names tossed around in trade rumors while Brandon Bass could be a sign-and-trade option. Boston can create plenty of cap space with trades considering they have players and draft picks to move. That could easily help lock down players like Ellis and Gasol.