Celtics consider Day’Ron Sharpe to fill Jayson Tatum’s void next season
The Boston Celtics are staring down a challenging season as they anticipate being without Jayson Tatum for the entirety of the upcoming year. His absence significantly undermines the team’s championship aspirations, leaving a noticeable gap in their roster.
Big Man Dilemma
One of the most pressing concerns for the Celtics is their big man rotation, which currently lacks a definitive starting center. To address this glaring need, the Celtics are reportedly eyeing Day’Ron Sharpe, a 23-year-old center standing 6’9”, who possesses the ability to stretch the floor offensively.
Last season, Sharpe showcased his potential while playing for the Brooklyn Nets, participating in 50 games and averaging 18.1 minutes per contest. He put up respectable numbers, recording 7.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, all while shooting an impressive 52.1% from the field. His offensive rebounding skills stand out; throughout his four NBA seasons, Sharpe has consistently ranked in the 97th percentile or higher among centers in offensive rebounding, a testament to his ability to capitalize on missed shots.
A Strategic Fit
What makes Sharpe particularly appealing to the Celtics is his contract. Set to earn just $6.3 million this year and next, he represents a financially viable option for Boston, making him easier to acquire in a potential trade. While Sharpe may not have been a centerpiece for the Nets, he has carved out a role as a reliable bench contributor.
The Celtics could view this as an opportunity to experiment with a young center who may not yet be viewed as starter material. Sharpe’s skill set could mirror that of Al Horford, a player the Celtics have shown little interest in retaining.
Supporting Jaylen Brown
With Tatum out, Jaylen Brown will undoubtedly shoulder a heavier burden next season. Adding a player like Sharpe could prove to be a low-risk move with the potential for significant upside. As the Celtics navigate this transitional phase, bringing in a promising talent like Sharpe could help mitigate the impact of Tatum’s absence and bolster their roster for the upcoming campaign.
