The Boston Celtics added some more size to their bench by signing veteran PJ Brown.
Sweepstakes Winner
While he may not be as hyped as Pau Gasol and Shaquille O’Neal, the acquisition of PJ Brown should give the Boston Celtics interior game more of a boost.
By adding the 6′11″, 250 pound center to the bench, the Boston Celtics have improved their rebounding and defense. Once he gets into NBA shape again, PJ Brown should be able to provide relief for forward Kevin Garnett and center Kendrick Perkins.
Even though he’s not a perennial all-star big man, there’s a reason why PJ Brown’s name kept popping up throughout the year. Every time a contending team’s interior depth was questioned, PJ Brown’s name was almost always mentioned as a possible solution.
The Rotation
Once he’s ready to be a regular part of the rotation, PJ Brown shoud get plenty of minutes.
Right now, the starters are Kevin Garnett and Kendrick Perkins. Kevin Garnett is playing 34.2 minutes a game while Kendrick Perkins is playing 24.2 minutes a game.
That leaves approximately 38 minutes available for the reserves.
PJ Brown should be able to handle about 20 minutes a game off the bench. The other 18 minutes can be split up between Brian Scalabrine, Glen Davis, Leon Powe, and Scott Pollard.
Taking the Pressure Off
Another advantage of having PJ Brown is that the team doesn’t have to rely solely on Kevin Garnett to guard the opposing team’s big men.
Two of the teams that the Boston Celtics will have to go through are the Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons.
Kevin Garnett is going to have his hands full trying to defend the ultra versatile forward Rasheed Wallace. He’s also going to have trouble defending center Zydrunas Ilgauskas, especially since he likes to score down low. PJ Brown can help out with both of those guys.
Closing Thoughts
This move is along the same line as the San Antonio Spurs signing Kurt Thomas. Nice subtle move that can help win a championship.