Boston and Memphis swap Melo for Greene
The Boston Celtics agreed Thursday to send center Fab Melo and “cash considerations” to the Memphis Grizzles in return for forward Donte Greene. First reported by Ronald Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal, the move is seen as a financial one for Boston, as the Celtics wanted to get under the $71.748 luxury tax line. Melo is set to receive roughly $1.3 million this year while Greene a little over $1 million.
From a basketball standpoint, it appears the Fab Melo era (or experiment rather) is over in Boston. The Brazilian center, while possessing great size for a NBA big man, currently lacks the skill and understanding of the game to make any significant impact. While only 23, Melo still has a lot to learn if he is to have a future in the NBA. Defensively he shows some promise, but the rest of his game has a lot of catching up to do. Melo’s contract expires at the end of the season so how much he develops this year will likely determine whether Memphis retains him beyond his contract.
Greene, also a former Syracuse player like Melo, hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2011-12 season, isn’t a lock to stay on Boston’s roster. While possessing great athleticism for his size (6′-11”), he hasn’t show much refinement in his game beyond a decent three point shot. If he does make the roster, he could be utilized in both forward spots.
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