The Boston Celtics are “backing off” in their attempts to re-sign the free agent big man, Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe reports. That could signal that demand for Humphries is higher around the league than expected.
Humphries was the highest-paid player on the Celtics last season at $12 million. It was widely assumed he would not receive an offer for half that this summer, but it now appears he could sign for around $10 million — far too rich for the Celtics’ blood.
Humphries was a solid contributor once he worked his way into coach Brad Stevens’ rotation last season. He averaged 15.1 points, 10.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocked shots per 36 minutes, but received only 19.9 minutes per game in actuality. Contrary to his TMZ reputation, Humphries was an understated and professional presence in the Celtics’ locker room.