The Boston Celtics might have found their missing piece in Walker Kessler as they look to fix their recent struggles.
The Celtics are going through their roughest patch in two years, but GM Brad Stevens isn’t sitting idle. He’s got his eyes on the Utah Jazz‘s young center who could be exactly what they need.
Kessler’s been turning heads this season. At just 23, he’s putting up impressive numbers – averaging a double-double with 10.8 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. And he’s doing it with incredible efficiency, hitting 72% of his shots.
But it’s his defense that really stands out. His 2.5 blocks per game ranks third in the NBA.
The Celtics could make it happen by offering Jaden Springer and some first-round draft picks. Springer’s barely seen the court this year, playing in just 16 games behind Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Payton Pritchard.
The timing might be perfect. Utah’s focused on rebuilding and chasing Victor Wembanyama in the draft lottery – what fans are calling “Capture The Flagg” – making them likely sellers.
Kessler’s been on an absolute tear lately. In his last four games, he’s grabbed:
– 15 rebounds
– 10 rebounds
– 17 rebounds
– 16 rebounds
All while shooting a ridiculous 76% from the field.
Boston really needs the help up front. Al Horford, at 38, can’t play back-to-back games anymore, and Kristaps Porzingis has been dealing with health issues since arriving in Boston. Their current backup centers, Luke Kornet and Neemias Queta, just aren’t providing enough offense.
The Celtics are still favorites to win it all this year. They’re looking to become the first team since the 2017-18 Warriors to win back-to-back championships.
But to get there, they might need someone like Kessler to shore up their frontcourt.
