On Tuesday, July 1, the Boston Celtics signed 6-foot-8 forward Josh Minott to a two-year $5 million deal. Minott has spent his first three years in the NBA playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was a second-round draft pick in 2022.
By signing Minott, the Celtics have gone marginally over the second luxury tax apron. As such, it’s fair to expect Brad Stevens to make another move, at the minimum. Given the Celtics’ talent drain in the frontcourt, Minott could contend for a legitimate role within Joe Mazzulla’s rotation next season.
He struggled to crack the Timberwolves roster during his time with the franchise. Over three seasons, Minott averaged 5 minutes per game, suiting up a total of 93 times. Therefore, it’s hard to get a read on what type of upside he brings to Boston’s roster outside of his size and length.
The Celtics are clearly preparing for a down year without Jayson Tatum. Adding players like Minott and Luka Garza, the Celtics will likely give some untested talent an opportunity to shine. If Stevens can find one or two low-cost contributors, then the next iteration of a contending roster will likely be more cost-effective than the one he’s currently tearing down.
Celtics Could Flip Anfernee Simons
With Boston clearly looking to reduce its outgoings, Anfernee Simons’ tenure with the franchise could be short-lived. He joins the 2024 NBA Champions as part of the Jrue Holiday trade that saw the veteran guard join the Portland Trail Blazers.
“If you’re doing a story about (Anfernee) Simons’ fit with the Celtics, you’d better be quick about it to cover yourself,” An NBA executive told Steve Bulpett of Heavy on Sports. “Boston’s still out there talking trade, and he could be gone if the right move comes along.”
Simons’ defensive liabilities could hinder his chances of remaining on the Celtics roster. However, the upside he brings as an offensive-minded guard, who thrives on the perimeter, could offset some of those defensive struggles. A lot depends on how the Celtics view his potential fit with the franchise, both next season and long-term.
Al Horford Could Be Next to Leave
Al Horford is yet to re-sign with the Celtics. The veteran big man is expected to draw interest from around the NBA. Given his age, it’s unclear whether he will prioritize staying in Boston or chasing a ring elsewhere.
According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, Horford could be heading for the Bay Area to team up with the Golden State Warriors.
“League sources say veteran center Al Horford will be a top target for Golden State,” Stein and Fischer reported.
Horford is a key member of Boston’s rotation. However, his pick-and-pop skill set makes him an ideal addition to Steve Kerr’s team. Horford would likely value the opportunity to contend for another championship, too. Golden State has a strong veteran trio in Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler.
Should Horford choose to leave the Celtics, the center rotation will be an issue. Mazzulla will be forced to rely on Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, Amari Williams and Xavier Tillman. That’s a significant talent drain from just last season.
Nevertheless, Horford earned the right to choose his next destination. The Celtics aren’t going to compete next season. Therefore, Horford could be wise to chase a championship elsewhere.
