In an absolutely expected move, the Boston Celtics have assigned Kris Joseph and Fab Melo to the Maine Red Claws.
Despite what some people may have said about Fab Melo, there was never any doubt that he was destined for an extended stay in Portland. He has some good instincts when it comes to anticipating and blocking shots, but he’s definitely a project that needs a lot of work. He’s a lump of coal… and the C’s hope the Red Claws can start cutting it into something resembling a diamond.
Joseph is further along than Melo. He had a pretty good summer league and he’s shown flashes of NBA-readiness in a couple of pre-season stretches.
I’d expect Melo to struggle some, even in Maine, but Joseph might just put up some numbers. Both are there to learn, but Melo needs to be taught a lot more. He needs to be molded. Joseph needs to play ball and keep those skills sharp. He’ll get plenty of minutes in Maine to do that.
One note: Their assignments to Maine do not open up roster spots. The NBA works differently than baseball. So if you’re hoping the C’s can pick up a player or two to replace these guys, forget it. The Celtics roster stands at 15 regardless of where these guys play. If you are pining for another player, you have to figure out who gets cut first before the Celtics can add anyone.
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