The Celtics have finally begun making some free agency moves. Earlier today, they signed former Toronto Raptors’ power forward Amir Johnson to add defense and rebounding to their frontcourt.
Now, they’ve re-signed Jonas Jerebko, who they acquired from the Pistons midseason. Jerebko, standing at 6’10”. can fill in at either forward spot.
From USAToday’s Sam Amick:
Jonas Jerebko to Boston on a two-year, $10 million deal, I’m told.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) July 1, 2015
The fans in Boston loved Jerebko last season. After he was traded to Boston, Jerebko averaged 7.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, while shooting an efficient 40.6% from beyond the arc. Jerebko is also a quality defender, and can guard multiple positions. Jerebko also seemed very happy in Boston, so it’s not surprising that he’s open to signing an extension. Jerebko loves both the team and head coach Brad Stevens, telling Tom Westerholm of Masslive.com:
“He’s been the best coach I’ve had in the NBA,” the six-year veteran said. “He leads this team very well, and he’s a great coach, so he definitely weighs in a lot…
“Playing together, sharing the ball, we’re very unselfish,” Jerebko said. “That’s the one word I’d use to describe this group: Unselfish…That’s the beauty with this team. Anybody can step up on any given day…
“I love being a Celtic,” Jerebko said. “I know the guys in this locker room love being Celtics…I’m just happy to be here.”
Sounds like Jerebko has an excellent attitude about the team, and couldn’t be happier in Boston. Jerebko will add to an already quite deep bench in Boston. Still, the team has yet to make any huge splashes here in free agency. Danny Ainge is sure to still be on the prowl.
