Celtics Could Eye These Veteran Centers Amid Growing Depth Concerns

The Boston Celtics’ frontcourt just took a hit, and more movement could be coming.

With free agency underway, the Celtics are operating under tight restrictions. They are sitting roughly $4 million under the second luxury tax apron, which means they can only bring back their own players or sign outside talent to minimum deals.

That is unless more salary gets moved in the aftermath of the Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday trades, which does not appear likely.

Brad Stevens made the team’s free agency goals clear last week.

“There is no question our priorities would be to bring Al (Horford) and Luke (Kornet) back,” Stevens said, as transcribed by Conor Roche of Boston.com. “Those guys are huge parts of this organization… but it’s their call, ultimately.”

One of those priorities has already made his choice. Luke Kornet reportedly is headed to the San Antonio Spurs on a four-year, $41 million deal.

Al Horford, meanwhile, has reportedly drawn interest from the Golden State Warriors, which may force the Celtics to shift gears quickly if they want a proven center in the mix.

So who are some of Boston’s free agent options at center?

Clint Capela, now a free agent after his run with the Atlanta Hawks, drew trade interest from Boston in the 2023 offseason. If the Celtics clear enough cap space to use the taxpayer mid-level exception, the veteran rim protector could resurface as a target.

Another potential big man is Phoenix Suns free agent Bol Bol, whose 7-foot-3 frame and shooting touch have intrigued teams, though injuries and inconsistency have continually clouded his ceiling.

Indiana Pacers free-agent rim protector Thomas Bryant could also enter the conversation depending on what the Celtics can offer.

Boston will not likely have to spend big to add a center, and there are still a variety of veteran names still available who could provide the depth the team is looking for.