Boston Celtics: Bidding adieu to Game 7 legend Kelly Olynyk

BOSTON, MA - MAY 15: Kelly Olynyk
BOSTON, MA - MAY 15: Kelly Olynyk /
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Days after the Boston Celtics renounced his rights, free agent Kelly Olynyk has found a new home in the sunny city of Miami.

That’s right, the man bun is taking his talents to South Beach.  As reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski late Thursday night, Kelly Olynyk, yes Kelly Olynyk, has agreed to a four-year, $50 million-plus contract with the Miami Heat officially ending his career with the Boston Celtics.

While most fans are surprised the 7-foot sharp shooter earned that kind of contract, it is actually not so surprising based on what teams are looking for.  Olynyk is a big man who is cable of spacing the floor and is the type of player Erik Spoelstra has been looking for.

Olynyk provides a similar complimentary game to Heat big man Hassan Whiteside that he while playing alongside Al Horford.  If the 26-year-old Gonzaga product finds the consistency he failed to find during his four years in Boston, he could be a nice addition to the Heat and worth the investment.

Big game, big money

In Boston, we know Kelly Olynyk’s downside.  However, his upside was well on display during Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Washington Wizards.  His 26 points and inside-outside game made him a legend.

With the way he stepped up during a big spot, Olynyk showcased the kind of player he could be at his best.  If he did that on a consistent basis, perhaps he would be continuing his career in a Boston Celtics jersey.

Related Story: Boston Celtics commentary: Kelly Olynyk picked right time for best game ever

Bidding adieu

Taken with the 13th overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft, Olynyk averaged 9.5 points, 4.8 rebounds in his seasons for the Celtics.

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His best season was in 2015 in which he averaged over 10 points.  While he is best known for his 26-point performance against the Wizards and for pulling Kevin Love’s shoulder out of its socket in the 2014 NBA playoffs, he is a player who could start in the league.

And while the money seems steep, former teammate Jaylen Brown feels he is worth more.

"“I thought he probably should have gotten a little bit more money but you know how that goes,” Brown said, via ESPN.  “He probably should have been starting, he is a starter but he came off the bench for us and he played really well all year on a good team so I’m happy for Kelly.  Miami has a good team and I wish him nothing but the best.”"

On that note, good luck in Miami Kelly Olynyk.  Also, thank you for a memorable Game 7 performance!

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