The Celtics entered this season intending to go small, and so far their plan has yielded mixed results. They remain just a little too old and slow to keep up with the fast-paced teams and a little too small to bang with the big bodies.
Well before Darko Milicic left the team to be with his sick mother and Jason Collins took on an increased role, the Celtics’ need for another big man was clear. Kevin Garnett is still reliable, but the team is extremely focused on keeping the 36-year-old’s minutes contained. Any time the Celtics can keep Garnett to fewer than 30 minutes is a good night for coach Doc Rivers.
Help could be on the way. While it will be tough for the Celtics to add a huge name due to budget constraints, there are a few players on the market who might fit their needs. Whether realistic or just pipe dreams, these guys could give Boston an immediate boost down low.