The Boston Celtics, who currently have just one center signed, will target Houston Rockets free agent center Chuck Hayes to add depth, Sean Deveney of The Sporting News reported Wednesday.
"Celtics are obviously looking for a low-cost, banger to put at center. Top target, I am told: Houston's Chuck Hayes. Would be a good fit," Deveney tweeted.
Hayes is the league's only 6-foot-6 center, a rock-like pillar of defense who somehow manages to thrive in his role despite an utter lack of height, length or athleticism. Not the type to wow fans looking for dunks and highlight-reel scores, Hayes nonetheless excels as a rebounder and has made himself into one of the NBA's better low-post defenders. Think Glen Davis, except likely cheaper and without the occasional tendencies to clash with Doc Rivers or shoot ill-advised jumpers from the perimeter.
Hayes started 63 of 74 games last season for the Houston Rockets, averaging 7.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. He posted one of the more unlikely triple-doubles in recent NBA history in March, when Hayes -- who contributed just 14 assists total during his entire rookie season -- notched 13 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists against the Golden St. Warriors.
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