Boston Celtics Looking To Add Big Man: Top 3 Targets

The Boston Celtics are looking to add some frontcourt depth at the trade deadline, hoping to provide some backup for 36-year-old Al Horford, and oft-injured Robert Williams III. 

"Though Luke Kornet has been solid this season, the Celtics are expected to evaluate options to shore up the depth behind Horford and Williams while giving (head coach) Joe Mazzulla additional lineup flexibility," writes Jay King of The Athletic. 

Let's have a look at 3 top targets for the Celtics on the big man market.

Jakob Poeltl

The San Antonio Spurs have set a ridiculously high price of two first-rounders for Poeltl, but it's widely expected that will come down, if they are indeed angling to trade him. Poeltl becomes a free agent after the season, and at 27, might not fit the very young Spurs' timeline.

The 7-footer has been averaging close to 13 points and 9.5 rebounds over the past two seasons in San Antonio. 

Mason Plumlee

At 32, the 10-year veteran is having one of the best years of his career. He's averaging 12.2 points, 9.7 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 67.4% from the field. He's on an expiring $9M contract, and would certainly provide more offense from the backup center spot than Kornet does, as King notes. 

Kelly Olynyk

Would a reunion with their former center be an option? Olynyk spent the first four seasons of his career in Boston, but has developed into a better passer in his time away. This season in Utah, he's averaging 11.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.2 assists, while hitting a career-high 41.4% from downtown. He'd offer another stretch five when Horford isn't on the floor. 

Many other names to consider as well for the Celts, as King mentions the likes of PJ Washington and Chris Boucher, and even Jae'Sean Tate, an undersized power forward.

Photo: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports