The Boston Celtics will face many crucial decisions this offseason. With a historical payroll and a devastating injury to Jayson Tatum, the Celtics are expected to make some significant roster changes. However, one of the more under-the-radar decisions will be what to do with veteran wing Torrey Craig. In February, the Celtics signed Craig on the buyout market after he was waived by the Chicago Bulls; now he is set to become a free agent this summer. Let’s dive into whether the Celtics should re-sign Craig this summer.
Should the Celtics Re-Sign Free Agent Torrey Craig?
Craig Could be a Valuable Depth Piece
In 17 games (three starts) with the Celtics, Craig averaged 11.8 minutes, 2.7 points, and 2.8 rebounds. Craig appeared in five playoff games, averaging 4.2 minutes and 1.2 points. While Craig didn’t contribute much during his short time in Boston, his skill set could make him worth re-signing.
The 6-foot-7 wing is a high-level defender capable of guarding multiple positions. In a game against the Toronto Raptors, Craig earned a start and played a de facto center role as Boston was playing without big men Kristaps Porziņģis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet. Craig’s defensive versatility and hustle allow him to fit with any lineup and could make him worth keeping on the roster. Similarly, Craig is a high-level rebounder.
Craig only shot 29 percent from three during his time with the Celtics. However, he is a career 35.4 percent three-point shooter and can space the floor, which is crucial in Boston’s three-point-centric offense. As a low-usage offensive player, Craig fits in nicely with the Celtics’ loaded core. Additionally, the eight-year veteran can be trusted with spot minutes and knows his role. Even if he doesn’t put up big minutes, Craig makes a positive impact on both ends of the floor. Overall, bringing back the veteran wing as a bench piece makes sense for many reasons.
Craig Could be Vital Without Tatum
With Tatum out due to a ruptured Achilles, there will be open-wing minutes for the Celtics. Moreover, Sam Hauser could be traded due to cap reasons, which would further increase the need for another wing. Baylor Scheierman is poised for a bigger role and could provide similar value to Hauser as a shooter. Nevertheless, between Tatum’s injury and a possible Hauser trade, there will undoubtedly be open wing minutes.
As a result, re-signing Craig would be logical. Craig’s defensive impact and versatility off the bench could be vital for the Celtics. Furthermore, Craig’s contract would likely be a veteran minimum, making it reasonable for the Celtics to bring him back. If the Celtics don’t draft a wing and/or trade Hauser, Craig’s chances of being re-signed would be highly likely. Monitoring Craig’s future with the Celtics will be an underrated story to watch this summer. Ultimately, while Craig didn’t play a big role during his time in Boston, this season, bringing him back could benefit the Celtics.
Featured image: © Mike Watters-Imagn Images
