Al Horford also followed Irving out of the door after contract negotiations broke down, with Kemba Walker’s acquisition being their only significant move. Nevertheless, the Celtics have plenty of assets and could be among the most active teams during the coming months. So with the 2019-20 season just a few weeks away, here are all the latest Celtics rumors you need to know.
Boston Celtics unlikely to make a move for Steven Adams
After being eliminated from the first round of the playoffs in three consecutive seasons, the Oklahoma City Thunder decided to enter rebuild mode this summer. Paul George, Russell Westbrook and Jerami Grant all completed trades to contending teams in the Western Conference while general manager Sam Presti is known to be looking to offload his remaining high earners.
Steven Adams is among those tied to expensive deals and the center was linked to the Celtics earlier this summer. However, according to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com, the team are unlikely to make a move for the 26-year-old:
During the 2018-19 season, Adams averaged career highs in points (13.9) and rebounds (9.5). However, the Kiwi has yet to develop a perimeter shot and is owed more than $53 million over the next two years.
Jaylen Brown in no rush to sign a new deal
Boston selected Jaylen Brown third overall back in 2016, and the 22-year-old has established himself as an important player under Brad Stevens. The wing is eligible to sign a rookie extension until Oct. 21, although Brian Robb of the Boston Sports Journal is reporting that Brown is in ’no rush’ to sign a new deal:
Last season, Brown averaged 13 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. If he fails to agree an extension with the Celtics, he is expected to command significant offers next summer due to the lack of talent set to hit the free agent market in 2020.
Tacko Fall’s future with the Celtics remains in doubt
Tacko Fall attracted plenty of coverage during his four seasons at UCF, although the towering center went undrafted in the 2019 Draft. Nevertheless, the Celtics signed Fall to their Summer League roster and the 23-year-old continues to fight for Boston’s final roster spot ahead of the 2019-20 season.
Fall made his TD Garden debut in Boston’s preseason opener against the Charlotte Hornets last night, and while offering praise for the young center, head coach Brad Stevens refused to confirm whether the UCF product is part of his plans for the upcoming season:
In his eight minutes on the court, Fall managed five points, three rebounds, and two blocks. Nevertheless, Javonte Green and Carsen Edwards both enjoyed breakout performances, and Fall will have to perform well over the next 10 days to secure a place on Stevens’ roster.
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