5 Dream Targets For Boston Celtics In 2017 NBA Free Agency

Greg Monroe, C, Milwaukee Bucks

At this moment, the Celtics need a true starter at center. Al Horford is currently filling the role while Amir Johnson is still settled in at power forward, but Boston could use a more traditional big man filling the role in the near future.

Unfortunately, there aren’t exactly an abundance of 2017 free agent options scheduled to be available. The top two candidates are Greg Monroe and Nerlens Noel. However, Noel stands a good chance of re-signing with the Dallas Mavericks.

As for Monroe, the odds are stacked towards him hitting the open market after two tough years in Milwaukee.

So Monroe it is. While he hasn’t been a great fit with the Bucks, it’s clear he’s still one of the better centers in the NBA. And yet, Milwaukee hasn’t allowed him a single start this season while allowing John Henson and Thon Maker to split that duty.

Despite that, he’s averaging 11.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 22.2 minutes per game.

Chances are Monroe will decline his player option, with the hope he can land a long-term deal with a center-needy team. The Celtics fit the bill, and should have the cap space to give him the starting role he deserves.