Veteran Guard Chose Celtics' Rival Over Boston on Buyout Market

The buyout market has become barren. Meanwhile, players on the Celtics have lobbied for Blake Griffin to return to fill their roster vacancy.

Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Boston Celtics have a roster vacancy that players on the team have lobbied for Blake Griffin to return to fill.

Time will tell if he rejoins them for their playoff run, but Boston's options are dwindling.

Patty Mills signed with the Miami Heat, Danilo Gallinari joined the Milwaukee Bucks, Mike Muscala signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Shake Milton chose the New York Knicks, and Otto Porter Jr. retired on Monday.

On his eponymous podcast, Bill Simmons shared that the Celtics had an interest in signing Delon Wright after he got bought out by the Washington Wizards. Instead, he joined a conference rival.

“The Celtics wanted him, by the way. And Miami promised him playing time—so you know," stated Simmons.

In three appearances with the Heat, Wright is averaging five points and three assists. In Boston, where he would have added his name to a depth chart of guards that includes Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Payton Pritchard, he may have spent most games glued to the bench.

A familial connection also makes Miami an attractive destination for Wright. His brother, Dorell, was a member of the Heat from 2004 to 2010.

Wright’s decision may become more impactful as the playoffs approach. The Celtics and Heat met in the Eastern Conference Finals each of the last two years. 

Further Reading

'Always Ready': Celtics Second Unit Shines in Portland

Jayson Tatum Plays Entire Second Half vs. Suns: 'Don't Really Say That Many Times'

Jaylen Brown's Evolution Crucial to Celtics' Desire to Win with More Than Talent

Celtics Embracing Challenge to Go Beyond Most Talented

Jayson Tatum Opens Up About Sacrificing in Celtics' Title Pursuit: 'It's a Process'

Brad Stevens Discusses Celtics' Plan for Final Roster Spot

Marcus Smart Shares How Boston Shaped Him, His Message to Celtics Fans

Celtics Maturation Molded by Experience: 'It Builds, Like, an Armor'

Jaylen Brown Quieting Doubters, Validating What He Always Believed: 'Earn Everybody's Trust'

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'