The Boston Celtics arguably lost more talent and depth than any other team in the NBA this offseason. Following the departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis for financial reasons, the Celtics were priced out of fan favorite free agent Luke Kornet. Al Horford remains unsigned, and regardless of where he ends up, the Celtics will look like a very different team next season.
All hope, however, is not lost. There is a chance that the Celtics can still salvage their offseason. The best way to do that is by nailing their few remaining free agent moves. One ideal target among unsigned players is versatile Knicks big man Precious Achiuwa.
Precious Achiuwa Is the Perfect Celtics' Target in Free Agency
Achiuwa will be even more desperately needed if Horford signs elsewhere.
The 25-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Knicks and has established himself as an excellent defender who can guard multiple positions. At 6'8", Achiuwa isn't the most physically imposing big man around, but his ability to switch out to the perimeter makes him an intriguing fit for head coach Joe Mazzulla's Celtics.
The reason Achiuwa isn't the most coveted free agent is his lack of offensive improvement. While he isn't shy about attempting three-pointers, he has yet to turn himself into a reliable shooter. He doesn't have enough driving, playmaking, or scoring ability to be a consistent offensive player, limiting his ceiling.
However, the Celtics have a track record of reviving the careers of such players. It wouldn't be hard to argue that Achiuwa was underutilized by Tom Thibodeau in New York and that another coach can get more out of his defensive versatility, strength, and athleticism.
Boston, which is desperately looking to add to their frontcourt rotation of Luka Garza, Georges Niang, Neemias Queta, and Xavier Tillman, should take a flyer on Achiuwa before another team has the same idea.