May 13, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) shoots the basketball against Golden State Warriors forward David Lee (10) during the fourth quarter in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Grizzlies 98-78. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Celtics have a crowded frontcourt, and defending NBA champion David Lee is a big reason why. The team surprised most when they traded for him a couple months ago, but Lee is far from washed up and can still help Boston improve and grow as a basketball team.
Here's more on how, specifically, Lee will be used by head coach Brad Stevens, courtesy of SB Nation's Celtics Blog:
"If David Lee can play at the level he did last year, then his impact on offense will outweigh the negatives on defense. He can be a steadying presence for a team that lacked a consistent scoring threat at times last season. He might even impart some veteran wisdom on the team. Maybe he convinces Kelly Olynyk to cut down on those increasingly infuriating pump fakes, or inspires Marcus Smart to drive the basket more. Worst case scenario everyone gets Chipotle. Considering they acquired him for basically nothing (sorry Gerald Wallace), that's a pretty solid deal."
Lee was an All-Star two seasons ago. An All-Star! Two seasons ago! Last year, in a greatly diminished role with the champs, he still made over half his shots and finished with a solid 17.8 PER.
He's 32 years old but playing for one last contract. There's a good chance the Celtics get a productive forward, either off the bench or in their starting lineup.
(h/t: Celtics Blog)
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.