As the Boston Celtics consider ways to alter their roster heading into next season, stealing Brook Lopez away from the Milwaukee Bucks could be an interesting idea. Lopez is an imperfect player, especially at this stage of his career, but as a stop-gap center while Jayson Tatum is injured, he could be a solid fit.
Giannis Antetokounmpo might depart Milwaukee this summer, and if he does, letting Lopez walk would make a ton of sense for the Bucks. And even if Antetokounmpo sticks around, swapping out Lopez for another center (or running the Greek Freak more at the five) could be a solid choice for the Bucks.
But what are the pros and cons of Boston adding Lopez?
Why would Brook Lopez work for the Celtics?
At its core, the move would allow the Celtics to add a veteran center who can defend the rim and shoot the ball. Since joining the Bucks, Lopez has been one of the best centers in the league at both of those skills.
And with question marks surrounding Boston’s big-man position, having a veteran presence at the five could be smart. Al Horford may retire, the Celtics may have to trade Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet may leave in free agency.
This past season, Lopez appeared in 80 games, playing 31.8 minutes per contest. He averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 50.9% from the floor and 37.3% from deep on 4.7 three-point attempts per game.
It was the second-best he’s ever shot from beyond the three-point line, and he still managed to play in almost every game.
At 37 years old, Lopez is entering the final stages of his career, but he’s clearly still capable of putting up productive numbers.
Why Brook Lopez could be a bad fit for the Celtics?
The biggest downside to adding Lopez would be the potential price tag. Boston’s primary goal this summer will be to shed salary and get under the second apron, and adding anyone who makes more than the minimum could be a dangerous game.
Lopez will be a free agent this summer, and teams around the league could be interested in adding his services. If the cost gets too high, the Celtics would likely bow out of the race to sign him.
Also, if the Celtics are looking to plan more for the future, doling out minutes to young ceneters (who they drafted or traded for) could be smarter than rolling with a 37-year-old Lopez.
However, if the price is right and the Celtics fail to bring back their centers from last year’s team, taking a look at Lopez in free agency could be a perfect way to build their depth back up.
