ESPN's Tim Legler Weighs In On Kristaps Porzingis Deal Putting Miami Heat On Free Agency Hot Seat

ESPN analyst Tim Legler considers Porzingis trade a “monumental win” for the Boston Celtics

Count ESPN's Tim Legler among those who think the Boston Celtics are the early winners of free agency. 

On a segment of Get Up, Legler said the acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis from the Washington Wizards could have a major impact on the Eastern Conference.

“This is a monumental win for the Boston Celtics," Legler said. 

With Porzingis proving he can stay on the court by playing 65 games last season, Boston’s championship hopes should be at an all-time high. The pairing of Porzingis as a third scoring option with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown gives the Celtics, who lost to the Miami Heat in the conference finals, an incredible Big Three.

Losing Marcus Smart in this trade hurts the Celtics perimeter defense, but the interior defense and shot-blocking ability that Porzingis adds makes up for the loss. 

“He is also a guy that’s an elite-level backline defender,” Legler said. “This is one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. He’s this unique combination of an offensive player ... He can also affect the game on the other end.”

With the Celtics making a major upgrade, other contending teams like the Heat have to decide if they need to do the same.  

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at anthonypasciolla36@gmail.com