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5 Roster Moves The Boston Celtics Need To Make

By Matthew Hallett

Apr 6, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) high fives a fan after making a basket against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) high fives a fan after making a basket against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 21, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics center Kelly Olynyk (41) is congratulated by forward Amir Johnson (90) after a basket during the second quarter against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 21, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics center Kelly Olynyk (41) is congratulated by forward Amir Johnson (90) after a basket during the second quarter against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Don’t Guarantee Amir Johnson

Like Jonas Jerebko, Amir Johnson is not guaranteed his contract until he is still on the team after July 3.

So why do I say guarantee Jerebko and not Johnson? Simple economics. Yes, Johnson provides an excellent defensive presence, I will grant you that, but for $12 million a season you can do better than just defense. Serge Ibaka, recently traded to Orlando, is on a $12.3 million a year contract.

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In this free agency period the Celtics are looking for a star, someone who can help them go from good to great. By not guaranteeing a $12 million contract of a player who averages just 7.3 point and 6.4 rebounds per game, you are opening up further cap space to land someone who will take the franchise forward.

Last season Boston had a really good defensive frontcourt with Jared Sullinger and Johnson. The Celtics finished fifth in defensive rating on the back of this defense and the brilliant play of Avery Bradley and Jae Crowder.

To move the Celtics up the standings in the East and possibly into the Finals, they need a star in the frontcourt. At $12 million, Johnson’s defense is costing the Celtics too much and possibly holding them back from signing the player they need.

Next: Re-Sign Sullinger

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