The Boston Celtics finally use their cap space by re signing forward Jonas Jerebko to a 2 year, $10 million deal and prying forward Amir Johnson from other suitors for 2 years, $24 million.
Jerebko was acquired at the trade deadline along with Luigi Datome from the Detroit Pistons for Tayshaun Prince. Jerebko was used more in Brad Stevens’ offense and flourished, averaging 7.1 PPG and 4.8 RPG. The Celtics value big men who can space the floor and Jerebko was a perfect fit.
Johnson is a 10-year veteran who spent the last six years in Toronto after being acquired from the Detroit Pistons. Johnson averaged 9.3 PPG and 6.1 RPG last season and was even better in the Raptors playoff runs the past few years. Johnson is still just 28 years old, but is an effective glue guy and could be a nice compliment to someone like Kelly Olynyk in the frontcourt.
The moves likely spell the end for SG Chris Babb, who is on a non-guaranteed deal, and for 2015 2nd round draft pick SG Marcus Thornton out of William & Mary, who will likely become a draft and stash pick for the rapidly rebuilding Celtics. The Celtics can look to continue clearing cap space by dealing the expiring contract of SF Gerald Wallace. The Celtics are still in play for the likes RFA Tobias Harris of the Magic among others.
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