Fansided

3 biggest free-agent mistakes in Boston Celtics history

ByJonathan Lurensky|
Apr 4, 2010; Boston, MA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) talks with Boston Celtics center Rasheed Wallace (30) during the first half at the TD Banknorth Garden. The Celtics defeated the Cavaliers 117-113. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2010; Boston, MA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) talks with Boston Celtics center Rasheed Wallace (30) during the first half at the TD Banknorth Garden. The Celtics defeated the Cavaliers 117-113. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
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May 5, 2021; Orlando, Florida, USA; Boston Celtics guard Kemba Walker (8) passes the ball during the first quarter against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2021; Orlando, Florida, USA; Boston Celtics guard Kemba Walker (8) passes the ball during the first quarter against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

Celtics biggest free agent mistakes: 2. Kemba Walker

Kemba Walker was a very bad fit for the Celtics. After making all-NBA third team in 2018, Walker left the Hornets and signed with the Celtics. Technically, this was a sign and trade but this still applies. Walker was signed to a $140 million contract over four years.

The idea behind signing Walker was the fact that he could add ball-handling to this group. He did add this but his defense made basically unplayable. As his left knee worsened, it became a lot harder to justify any minutes for the former All-NBA and star.

After two years, Walker was traded to the Thunder for Al Horford along with draft picks. Over the next couple of years, his defense got a lot worse and he is in danger of not playing in the NBA next season. Lucky for Boston fans, trading for Horford seem to solve a lot of their defensive problems and created another weapon for Boston on offense.

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