Al Horford shakes up Celtics by joining Warriors, leaving Boston eyeing Walker Kessler
The Boston Celtics faced a challenging offseason, having already seen the departures of Luke Kornet and Kristaps Porzingis. While the front office held onto some hope that veteran Al Horford would stay in the fold, that dream was shattered less than two weeks before training camp. Horford’s decision to ink a multi-year deal with the Golden State Warriors has left Boston’s frontcourt in disarray, forcing the franchise to rethink its strategy.
Celtics left scrambling for solutions
The loss of Horford, a cornerstone of the team’s success in recent years, has left a significant void. As the Celtics grapple with their current roster, the prospects of Chris Boucher, Luke Garza, and Neemias Queta do not inspire much confidence. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that the Celtics traded Porzingis, a move that many viewed as a miscalculation, intensifying their biggest weaknesses in the process.
Yet, amid the uncertainty, there is a glimmer of hope. According to insights from Cal Durrett of Hoops Habit, the Celtics may have a golden opportunity to bolster their frontcourt by targeting Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. Kessler, a promising 7-foot center, is not expected to reach an agreement on an extension that would prevent him from hitting restricted free agency next summer. This situation could make him a valuable trade asset as the deadline approaches.
Walker Kessler: A potential game-changer
Kessler’s potential availability is particularly intriguing for Boston. The Celtics had previously expressed interest in the former Auburn standout before last season’s trade deadline, recognizing his impressive skill set. Despite only three years in the NBA, Kessler has built a reputation as a dual-threat player on both ends of the court.
His game may lack the flashiness of some of the league’s more prominent big men, but Kessler’s effectiveness is undeniable. He combines a soft touch around the rim with defensive prowess, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game last season. His impressive shooting percentage of 66.3% from the field underscores his ability to finish plays efficiently.
As Kessler looks to establish himself in the league, joining a Celtics team that is only two seasons removed from a championship could align perfectly with his aspirations for competitive basketball. The prospect of teaming up with a franchise eager to reclaim its status as a title contender may prove irresistible for the young center.
With Horford’s departure shaking the foundation of the Celtics, the organization must act swiftly. The potential addition of Kessler could not only address their immediate needs but also set the stage for a brighter future in Boston.
