Jaylen Brown and the Boston Celtics have few weaknesses, but their shortcomings could prevent them from succeeding in the postseason this year.
Regarding the organization’s mediocre bench production, the Celtics could land a Golden State Warriors outcast in free agency to bolster their second unit.
Before suffering a partially torn ACL against the Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 12, De’Anthony Melton enjoyed a shortened campaign with the Dubs as a valuable role player.
As an underrated defender who can fight over forceful screens, beat ball handlers to their preferred destinations on the hardwood, and offer serviceable three-point shooting, Melton made a lasting impression with Golden State.
Melton averaged 10.3 points and 1.2 steals per contest, shooting 40.7% from the field and 37.1% from deep in six contests with the storied franchise.
After Melton’s devastating season-ending lower-body injury, the Warriors felt compelled to include the SMU product in a Dec. 15 trade for former Brooklyn Nets point guard Dennis Schroder.
Although the Celtics should scour the free agency market for making hasty decisions, there’s no question Melton’s defensive awareness and respectable offensive productivity would make a solid fit with the 2024 NBA champions.
It’s nearly impossible to predict how sharp the 26-year-old pro will look during his 2025-26 season debut following his lengthy rehab. Still, with time, it’s reasonable to assume Melton would settle in and find his groove on both ends.
Melton could soon find himself on Boston’s list of potential offseason targets.
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