While Danny Ainge intends on chasing the biggest names in NBA free agency this summer. The issue is that so are the New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers. The Boston Celtics will have plenty of competition this offseason which means they need a Plan B should players like Kevin Love stay put in Cleveland or Greg Monroe heads to New York. That plan could include players like Tyson Chandler or Thaddeus Young.
According to the Boston Herald, Kevin Love, DeAndre Jordan, LaMarcus Aldridge and Greg Monroe headline Ainge's wishlist for free agency this year. The team is confidence in young players like Marcus Smart and James Young, but is looking for elite size to build the defense up. Those names are attainable for the Celtics and others. Jordan is being recruited back to the Los Angeles Clippers with a max contract. Aldridge is being recruited by the Lakers and his hometown Dallas Mavericks. Monroe has spoken highly of heading to the Big Apple.
According to the Fort-Worth Star Telegram, Chandler has expressed interest in the Dallas Mavericks, but the feeling might not be mutual. Mark Cuban is chasing younger talent which could leave the veteran on the outside looking in. This is where Ainge could come calling if Boston fails to sign other top choices. The Celtics only need a few pieces to be contenders in the East and Chandler is a solid option. He would also be affordable for the Celtics.
Another Plan B option could end up being Paul Millsap should the Atlanta Hawks fail to re-sign him. Millsap has developed into a star this season down south and certainly has the attention of plenty of teams heading into free agency. The Atlanta Journal Constitution as reported the Hawks intend to keep Millsap around, but the new ownership group might have other thoughts. Millsap would pair well with Jae Crowder and Avery Bradley.
While the Celtics have shown plenty of promise during the 2014-15 season, they are still considered in rebuilding mode. Ainge might have a hard time convincing players like Aldridge or Chandler or even Millsap who are getting into the back half of their careers to join a project team. Boston will have the money to offer, but not the star power just yet.
