Should the Celtics target Minnesota's Gorgui Dieng?

The Boston Celtics need a center. With Kevin Garnett, Karl-Anthony Towns, Nikola Pekovic, and Gorgui Dieng, the Minnesota Timberwolves have a surplus of centers. Maybe a deal could be struck here?

Towns is their future, he won't be going anywhere. Pekovic is a good player, but he is making $12 million per year for 2 more seasons. That money doesn't mesh with the Celtics seeming intent of clearing cap space to maintain Danny Ainge's ever-lusted after flexibility going into next offseason. So Pekovic doesn't seem to be a realistic target.

Our beloved Garnett is now the mentor and official salty Uncle of the young Timberwolves. They wouldn't dare deal him during his ceremonial last run (nor would the Celtics be looking to add him at this stage), especially since KG will apparently be in their starting lineup. So what's up with this Dieng guy?

Dieng was drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2013, immediately traded to Minnesota, and just completed his second year in the NBA. It was a good season for him, and much improved from his rookie effort. Dieng averaged 9.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks over 30 minutes per game. He is also 6'11", and only 25 years old.

Dieng is on the books for $1.3 million this season and $1.4 million next season. Pretty cheap for a decent rim protector who is still young with a lot of potential.

What would make sense for the Celtics to give up? It would be nice to have a rim protector now, especially for that money, rather than wait to overpay someone this upcoming offseason.

Kelly Olynyk's salary works in the transaction, but doubt Minnesota would want another big if they're getting rid of one out of surplus. Should the C's go Chauncey Billups on James Young and package him and a future Brooklyn 1st rounder, even though he is still only 20 years old?

Tough to say what to do with those Brooklyn picks, as it is anyone's guess where they eventually fall, but it would be tough to lose one of those even for an immediate improvement in talent. Minnesota on the other hand likes Dieng, and teams don't go around giving away young, cheap size. At some point the war chest needs to be tapped into, and realistically Celtic fans probably overvalue the assets. Is it time? Should they stay away from Dieng and hold out for better options? What do you think?

Dieng's highlights from last year are below, check them out if you are unfamiliar, and let us know what you would do if you were running the show.






Top Photo Credit: David Sherman/NBAE/Getty Images



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