The Boston Celtics have apparently secured Greg Monroe’s services. According to ESPN, the center signs a one-year contract for $5 million. Previously, he agreed to a buyout with the Phoenix Suns after coming to Arizona as part of the Eric-Bledsoe-Trades.
For a long time, the New Orleans pelicans were considered the favourites for Greg Monroe, as they offered him a place in the Starting Five to catch the loss of DeMarcus’ cousins. Eventually, Monroe chose the goblins, who can pay him a higher salary and probably also offer him greater chances of winning the title.
Celtics use their Disabled Player Exception (DPE) for Monroe, which they received due to the violation of Gordon Hayward. Due to its cap situation, the Pelicans could only offer Monroe a salary of 2.2 million dollars.
Although Celtics’ DPE totalled approximately $8.4 million, Boston cannot use the remainder because DEPs can only be used for one player. Moreover, the use of the DPE does not prevent Gordon Hayward from returning to the scene this season with a perfect healing process.
This season Monroe played 10.4 points and 7.4 rebounds in 23 minutes per game.