Search For A Big: Powell, Turiaf Options For Celtics
BOSTON (CBS) – In need of a big man, or two or three, the Boston Celtics are frivolously searching the NBA's bargain bin.
The Celtics have until Friday to add a player to the roster and have them eligible for postseason play. Names had been flying around as early as 3:01pm last Thursday, right after the Celtics remained silent at the trade deadline.
And as players are being bought out, their names are now being connected to the Celtics as well.
Ronny Turiaf has been mentioned as of late, and ESPN's Brian Windhorst is reporting it is down to the Celtics and Miami Heat when it comes to the recently released forward. The 29-year-old Turiaf would give the Celtics depth at forward, but likely little by way of rebounding. His career average is just 3.8 per game.
Read: Pierce Raffling Off Suite For Celtics-Heat
The name Josh Powell has also been connected to the Celtics, according to Alex Kennedy of Hoops World. The Celtics and Phoenix Suns are among the teams expressing interest in the unrestricted free agent that spent time in China during the lockout. A six-year NBA veteran, Powell spent time with the Mavs, Pacers, Warriors, Clippers, Lakers and Hawks, winning a pair of championships with the Lakers. The 29-year-old has averaged 3.9 points and three rebounds per game over his career.
Other options for the C's right now are centers Dan Gadzuric, who is currently in the D-League, and Kyrylo Fesenko, a 7-1 monster who has not played in the NBA this season. Chris Johnson, who the C's signed to a 10-day contract last season, is also available and is at least (somewhat) familiar with the Celtics' system.
The Cleveland Cavaliers bought out center Ryan Hollins on Tuesday, and the Celtics are expected to pursue the 27-year-old seven-footer. Hollins has only seen limited time over his five-year career, but would bring some size to Boston.
Captain's Corner: Would You Ever Boo C's Ownership?
Forward Boris Diaw may also be bought out by the Bobcats, and is a decent rebounder, but the last thing the Celtics need is another 6-9 forward bumping down low with bigger players.
There is still no word if the Hornets will buyout center Chris Kaman, so Boston can't just sit around and wait. With just Kevin Garnett, Brandon Bass and Greg Stiemsma logging minutes in the front court, they'll take just about anyone they can get.
