The Boston Celtics have a frontcourt problem, whether the front office wants to admit it or not, and this summer is the right time for them to address it.
Two of the team's top three options at the center position will be free agents this summer. The other has only played more than 70 games in a single season once during his nine-year career. That is not an enviable position to be in when Jayson Tatum, the highest-paid player on the roster, is set to miss an extended period after tearing his Achilles.
Assuming that Luke Kornet does not take less money to remain in Boston moving forward, putting all your chips in on 39-year-old Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis being healthy enough to make it through the regular season schedule is a risky proposition.
Brad Stevens will have to reshape this roster in one way or another this offseason. If he can do that while adding a young piece to continue building around, then he should make every effort to make it happen. While he isn't being actively shopped on the trade market at this time, one option that checks off all those boxes is reportedly available for the right price.
Cavaliers Center Jarrett Allen May Be Available via Trade per Report
Given the salary cap impediments facing the Celtics this offseason, it will be difficult for Boston to swing a trade for Jarrett Allen without help from a third team. It is important to remember that for any potential deals the Celtics attempt to make this summer. Since they can not aggregate salaries to complete a trade, involving a third team will be the easiest way to bring Allen into the fold.
While it will not be easy to get this kind of deal done, the potential upside that Allen could bring to Boston is entirely too great not to look into the possibility. In addition to being a walking double-double and a defensive presence at the rim, Allen would be a great lob option on the offensive end, and that would open up numerous opportunities for high-percentage looks at the basket.
Expect the Celtics to be linked to several players this summer as potential trade options. Allen is just another name to add to the list.