NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason targets for the Boston Celtics

WALTHAM, MA - SEPTEMBER 26: General manager Danny Ainge of the Boston Celtics speaks with the media during Boston Celtics Media Day on September 26, 2016 in Waltham, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)
WALTHAM, MA - SEPTEMBER 26: General manager Danny Ainge of the Boston Celtics speaks with the media during Boston Celtics Media Day on September 26, 2016 in Waltham, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 5
Next
Andre Iguodala
Jun 12, 2017; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala (9) celebrates with fans in the stands after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in game five of the 2017 NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Andre Iguodala

Andre Iguodala is testing the open market this summer and the 2015 Finals MVP is in line for a handsome payday. Many believe the Golden State Warriors will retain Iguodala’s services. But they will have competition. Iguodala’s versatility and length is crucial in today’s game. He’s also a selfless player that shows up in the biggest moments. From stripping LeBron James to help seal the win in Game 3 of the 2017 NBA Finals, to scoring 20 points in Game 6, Iguodala is money when it matters most. At 33-years-old, this is probably his last chance at a big NBA contract. This could get interesting.

So how does Iguodala fit with the Boston Celtics? Refer to the previous paragraph. Are you not convinced? How many players does Boston have that can knock down timely 3s, defend LeBron James or Kyrie Irving on an island, and efficiently run the offense? Zero. They have tough perimeter defenders who are limited offensively. Jaylen Brown looks the part, but he’s still green. Marcus Smart shot 28 percent from distance last season. And Jae Crowder cannot facilitate offense. The Celtics badly need an all-purpose player off their bench.

Of course there will be bigger names in the talent pool. But one big name won’t be enough. Unless Boston tries to wait LeBron out, they need multiple players to threaten Cleveland. So how much will it take to pry Iguodala away from the Warriors? And can a respected player like him help you land other targets?