The Boston Celtics' magical run this season ended at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks as they finally succumbed to the veteran squad in game six of their first-round match-up. With their weakness exposed, it would not be a surprise if GM Danny Ainge makes a run for a bonafide offensive star in the off-season.
They managed to exceed expectations after finishing the season at 48-34 and taking the fifth seed in the Eastern conference. Projected as a lottery team, the Celtics proved that they are ready for the big stage thanks to their head coach Brad Stevens, who is pegged as the next superstar coach.
However, the injury Avery Bradley sustained in game one exposed the team's weaknesses, SB Nation reported. Aside from All-Star Isaiah Thomas, Bradley was the only consistent three-point shooter in this team. Hence, due to his absence, the Hawks were able to gang up on Thomas, limiting him offensively.
Another reason pointed out was the lack of effort forward Jae Crowder put throughout the series. He was expected to be one of the main contributors as his performance during the season put him in the conversation of being the Celtics' best player.
Due to this, the needs of the team became apparent. They need a scoring force that can back up Isaiah Thomas who can demand double teams. Hence, the free agents they should target are Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Kevin Durant and Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford, NESN reported.
There is no secret that Durant will be one of the most sought after free agents in this batch of 2016. In fact, as early as 2014, Durant was being linked to his hometown team, the Washington Wizards. Durant, however, made it clear that despite his former coach Scott Brooks will be coaching the Wizards next season, he is not considering the team as one of his possible destinations.
Also, Al Horford will be a huge upgrade at the center position should they be able to lure him away from the Hawks. Fortunately, the Celtics present the assets that would entice quality players to their cause. They are poised to pick in the top five in June's draft plus they have a plethora of promising young players.
YouTube channel TYT sports discussed the possibility of the Celtics signing the All-Star forward.