Celtics Must Replace Oshae Brissett
Oshae Brissett has chosen to decline his $2.5 million player option for the upcoming season.
Last season, the Boston Celtics forward contributed off the bench under coach Joe Mazzulla. Brissett brought physicality and energy, enabling the team to experiment with small-ball lineups. Now, after a championship season, he is testing the free-agent market.
The 26-year-old appeared in 55 regular-season games, averaging 3.7 points and 2.9 rebounds with a 44.4 percent shooting rate. Despite modest box-score stats, Brissett’s impact was significant. His hustle plays often shifted game momentum, energizing the Celtics.
As a second tax apron team, the Celtics face constraints in filling out their roster, limited to draft picks, trades, and veteran-minimum deals. Jordan Walsh might see an increased role, although he could still benefit from more time in the G League with the Maine Celtics.
Fortunately, Boston can negotiate from a position of strength as the 2024 NBA champions, with their core players secured on long-term contracts. This makes them strong contenders for the next few years, potentially attracting veterans willing to sign for the minimum to chase a ring.
However, the Celtics can’t promise consistent playing time. Brissett averaged 11.5 minutes per game in the regular season, dropping to 5.5 minutes in the playoffs. Any replacement must accept a backup role with variable minutes.
Brad Stevens must now find a suitable replacement for Brissett. The depth of Boston’s championship roster was a key strength, and maintaining that depth under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement will be challenging.
Luckily, the Celtics have the 30th and 54th picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, offering a chance to find a ready-made replacement. If not, there will be plenty of players willing to join Boston’s championship pursuit for less money.
