Ex-Laker Floated as Celtics’ Ideal Free Agent Target
The Boston Celtics are in need of more sharpshooters as they approach the 2024 offseason, and one potential target is former Los Angeles Lakers player Malik Beasley.
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report highlights Beasley as an ideal free agent for the Celtics. He notes that Beasley, who averaged 11.3 points and shot 41.3% from three with the Milwaukee Bucks last season, might command a higher salary elsewhere. However, since Beasley played on a veteran’s minimum deal last year, he might be open to a similar contract with a contender like the Celtics.
Convincing Beasley to join the Celtics would not only bolster their roster but also weaken a key Eastern Conference rival. Beasley excelled in catch-and-shoot threes with a 42.4% success rate for Milwaukee, and he could find even more open shots with a talented Celtics team, potentially serving as their new sixth man.
Though Beasley was with the Lakers in 2023, he had a limited role in their unexpected run to the Western Conference Finals. Given that the Celtics are likely to exceed the NBA’s second tax apron this offseason and can only offer veteran minimum contracts, Beasley represents a valuable addition within their financial constraints.
Derrick Rose Considered an ‘Ambitious’ Trade Target
With the Celtics’ limited ability to maneuver under the NBA’s second tax apron, acquiring new talent will be challenging, affecting both free agency and trade options. They cannot combine salaries for a trade, limiting their possibilities.
One affordable and experienced trade target is former NBA MVP Derrick Rose. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report argues that despite Rose being near the end of his career and not necessarily more valuable than Payton Pritchard, Rose’s veteran leadership and ability to run the offense could benefit the Celtics. Given Boston’s financial restrictions, adding Rose would be a strategic move.
Rose’s past experience playing with Kristaps Porzingis during their time with the New York Knicks adds to his appeal for the Celtics.
Kyle Anderson as a ‘Realistic’ Target
Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report discusses the feasibility of the Celtics adding Kyle Anderson. While acknowledging the difficulty, Bailey points out that at 30, Anderson could qualify for the largest veteran minimum salary ($3.3 million). Anderson’s size, playmaking, and defensive versatility would enhance Boston’s second unit.
If Anderson were to join the Celtics, it would likely be due to a lack of better options. His playoff experience with the Spurs, Grizzlies, and Timberwolves makes him a valuable potential addition to the Celtics’ roster.
Leave a Reply