3 free agency landing spots that might actually work for Dillon Brooks
By Ian Levy
1. Boston Celtics
The Celtics may be the strangest team mentioned by Deveney’s anonymous GM, given how much two-way depth they already have on the wings. But, the report specifically mentioned him as an option if Boston isn’t able to retain Grant Williams, who is a restricted free agent. Brooks would be a big downgrade on offense — Williams shot 40.3 percent from beyond the arc on 549 attempts over the past two seasons. But he does make at least a little bit of sense as a defensive replacement.
Brooks doesn’t play as much 4 as Williams, but he can handle a lot of those defensive matchups and his ability to attack off the dribble may make the Celtics a little bit more difficult to guard. As with all of these scenarios, it depends on the cost, Brooks’ ability to improve, even marginally as a shooter, and his willingness to blend into a new team culture and two-way role.
The Celtics don’t want the version of Brooks who bottomed out in the playoffs against the Lakers. But there is, theoretically, a quieter and more efficient version of that player who could help Boston next year.
Next. The 20 different emotions of Gregg Popovich. dark
Check out The Step Back for more news, analysis, opinion and unique basketball coverage. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our daily email newsletter, The Whiteboard.