3 Free Agents Celtics Could Target to Fill 15th Roster Spot
By Nick Galle
After reportedly waiving Wenyen Gabriel on Friday, the Boston Celtics have an open spot on the 15-man roster with the regular season just five days away.
Should Boston make no corresponding move, it would head into Wednesday night's season opener against the New York Knicks carrying 14 players. There's also the possibility that the Celtics wait to see who others teams cut this week, allowing Boston to have a deeper free-agent pool to choose from.
Not really surprised that Boston waived Wenyen Gabriel. Neemias Queta passed him in the pecking order of backup bigs. And Boston has preferred to leave a roster spot open when they can to start a season. Plus, no reason to add to the tax bill for a guy who has no real role.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) October 20, 2023
However, there are a number of players who are currently available that could be a great fit for the Celtics as they prepare to tip off the 2023-24 campaign.
Blake Griffin
A reunion with Griffin might be a long shot considering he is considering retirement, according to Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe.
But Boston loved Griffin, and Griffin loved Boston.
A six-time All-Star, Griffin has obviously taken a step back from his days with the Los Angeles Clippers and Detroit Pistons, but he was still serviceable when called upon last season. He appeared in 41 games (16 starts), posting averages of 4.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists.
The Celtics need frontcourt depth more than anything, and Griffin, who already has experience in head coach Joe Mazzulla's system, would certainly provide that.