With the first signing of NBA free agency, the Boston Celtics made a crucial depth move by inking center Luke Kornet to a one-year deal to keep him in Boston. The move was first reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski when the clock struck 6 PM EST, marking the official start of free agency and the time for teams to begin meetings with prospective signings. It’s no coincidence Boston was eager to come to terms with Kornet with Kristaps Porzingis sidelined for the start of the season.
MassLive’s Brian Robb initially reported Boston’s interest in retaining Kornet as well as fellow big man Xavier Tillman. On Saturday, Boston made some minor moves concerning some of their other free agents, tendered qualifying offers to both Neemias Queta and Drew Peterson (but not JD Davison). Queta agreed on a multi-year deal with Boston roughly an hour after the Kornet signing was announced.
As a big part of the Celtics rotation, Luke Kornet had a career year and his best season in Boston yet, averaging 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 63 games during the regular season. His numbers ticked upward a bit when Kristaps Porzingis was sidelined during the season, something that will be much needed with Boston’s star center out for 5-6 months following foot surgery.
With concerns of navigating the new salary cap and fear of tampering fines as result of the latest CBA, free agency news has been trickling out bit by bit as opposed to the fun-filled pandemonium of the past. Expect the Celtics to remain in the mix as they do their best to retain key role players and prepare to defend their NBA title.
