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Former Celtics Big Man Shockingly Leaves NBA for Overseas Deal

By Cem Yolbulan

Dec 23, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) celebrates after scoring against Los Angeles Clippers center Daniel Theis (10) during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
Dec 23, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) celebrates after scoring against Los Angeles Clippers center Daniel Theis (10) during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images / Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
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The NBA trade deadline is officially behind us but the transactions aren't over just yet. Free agency is still underway as players who were waived at the deadline are trying to find new teams. The Boston Celtics already signed Torrey Craig to a guaranteed contract and are looking for ways to fill their 15th and final roster spot.

Among the players who were released after the deadline was former Celtics big man Daniel Theis. The 32-year-old center was traded from the Pelicans to the Thunder last week. Oklahoma City, one of the deepest and most talented teams in the league, didn't have much use for him and waived him subsequently.

Theis was expected to draw some interest from frontcourt-needy teams in the NBA. However, according to BasketNews' Donatas Urbonas, the veteran center is headed back to Euroleague to play for AS Monaco.

Daniel Theis Signs Euroleague Deal Despite NBA Interest

Theis reportedly received offers from NBA teams but was seeking a situation where he could play a larger role and prove his value. When former NBA players sign Euroleague deals, they usually include an NBA exit clause. This allows them to sign with an NBA team while they are still under contract in Europe.

As a proven, competent veteran, Theis could still have suitors in the NBA. It is rather surprising that the Los Angeles Lakers, who are desperate for a center and can offer a starting role, weren't able to sign the German big man.

The most successful tenure of Theis' career in the NBA came in Boston. After spending the first four seasons of his career with the Celtics, Theis returned for a second stint in 2022 and helped Boston reach the NBA Finals. Whether he will get another chance to win a ring in the NBA remains to be seen.

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