Report: Jason Collins Signs With Celtics in One-Year Deal, Boosting Boston's Defense

Report: Jason Collins Signs With Celtics in One-Year Deal, Boosting Boston’s Defense

by Jen Slothower on Sun, Jul 22, 2012 at 4:17PM

The Celtics have moved quick to acquire some height.

Veteran center Jason Collins has signed a one-year deal with Boston, Chris Forsberg of ESPN reported Friday night. Under the veteran minimum, Collins will make $1.35 million, with some of it coming from the NBA since he has played at least 10 years in the league.

Although the Celtics have not made the signing official, Collins appeared to confirm the deal himself Sunday morning.

Thank you for all the great welcomes from the #CelticNation !!! Looking forward to having a great year with the @Celtics. #TeamCeltics

— Jason Collins (@jasoncollins34) July 22, 2012

Collins, who is 7 feet tall, has played 12 seasons in the NBA, sharing time with the Nets, Grizzlies, Timberwolves and Hawks. He has averaged 3.8 points and 3.9 rebounds a game over his career.

Collins' biggest asset is his defensive presence, which is exactly what the Celtics need to help their frontcourt. Boston tried to use big man Jermaine O'Neal, among others, as a mostly defensive boost over the past two years, but O'Neal struggled without having touches in the offense. Collins, however, could thrive into a mostly defensive role and give the C's some flexibility at the position.

Boston made the move to sign Collins shortly after Greg Steimsma, one of several role players who helped the Celtics in the post last year, appeared likely to sign with the Timberwolves.

Photo via Facebook/Jason Collins