The Boston Celtics currently sit 5th in the Eastern Conference standings but they have underwhelmed this season. The team is looking to find a nice defensive center to help them solidify their lineup. They have been linked with Andrew Bogut but due to his injury, the Celtics might have an interest in Omer Asik.
Marc Stein of ESPN first reported last week that Boston could acquire Bogut from the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics need rebounding and the Australian center is currently averaging 10.4 rebounds per game this season but he is currently sidelined due to an injury.
Bogut suffered a bone bruise in his right knee during a game against the Charlotte Hornets last week. He is slated to miss two weeks but it could have been worse. Nevertheless, expect him to be healthy as early next week.
The Celtics are certainly taking a risk in acquiring Bogut but it could also give them nice rewards. The team's main need is rebounding and the Aussie provides them that. He also helps the defense in the interior while Al Horford can play the power forward position.
But with Bogut's injury, Boston might shift their focus to another big man on the trading block: Omer Asik of the New Orleans Pelicans. According to NESN, the Pelicans have made Asik available via trade. He has failed to meet expectations after signing a five-year deal worth $58 million in the summer of 2015.
The Turkish center is currently averaging 3.3 points and six rebounds per game but he could be a good pickup for the Celtics. Asik was one of the best defensive centers in the league when he was with the Chicago Bulls.
Asik is not the same player he once was but he can still rebound and block shots. He could help the Celtics get more rebounds and win games. However, the only thing that may hinder a possible trade is his bloated contract.
