With the Paris Olympics coming up, teams across the world are starting to gear up for competition. That includes training camps as teams are looking to bring the best roster possible to the games. But in potential cases, players can also opt out of training camps to focus on their pro careers.
That’s exactly what former Celtics forward Oshae Brissett is doing. Canada Basketball announced earlier this week that Brissett was released after he requested to withdraw from camp to focus on NBA free agency. That’s no surprise as Brissett enters an important summer for him personally as he looks to get his next contract in the league.
Brissett, 26, turned down his player option with the C’s for next season as he’s looking for an opportunity that comes with more playing time. With the Celtics, it’s difficult to get a consistent rotation spot — especially as the team brings back virtually the same squad as last season. Brissett averaged 3.7 points and 2.9 rebounds in 55 games (one start) for the Celtics last season.
Brissett certainly had some highlights sprinkled throughout the season in spot minutes. He was a big man choice against the Pacers and played well when his number was called in Game 2 of the East Finals. Brissett was also an important locker room member in terms of chemistry as he was well-liked by his teammates.
The Celtics currently have 14 players already under contract, meaning they only have one spot still open. They re-signed multiple big men this summer already in Luke Kornet, Xavier Tillman and Neemias Queta. So while there’s still a spot open for Brissett should he seek a return, he could still look elsewhere to boost his NBA career, especially after he won a ring with the Celtics. But that remains to be seen as free agency continues for the league.
