Boston Celtics: 5 cheap replacements if Marcus Smart leaves

1. Patrick McCaw

At one time, Patrick McCaw was seen as a bonafide draft gem. During his rookie season he even started some playoff games for the Warriors. So, why is this wing struggling to find a new NBA home?

McCaw has all the tool you want a prospect to have. Yet, he has been plagued by injuries. Standing at 6’7″ with a 6’10” wingspan, McCaw looks like a possible defensive menace. Brad Stevens could certainly find a way to use McCaw to his advantage, similar to how he used Semi Ojeleye to guard Giannis Antetokounmpo in last year’s playoffs.

Although his playmaking is underrated, McCaw would not occupy a third point guard roll. Instead, he would serve as guard/wing depth. With title aspirations, the Celtics could use McCaw when they rest their stars or give them nights off.

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The Warriors could match a deal for the restricted free agent, but their luxury bill implies they may be hesitant to do so. A bit of a reclamation project, McCaw could put his career back on track in Boston.