The Celtics are seemingly on the lookout for veteran players to fill out their backcourt. And sharp-shooter Reggie Jackson could on their radar.
Boston is one of four teams that may pursue Jackson if he doesn't re-sign with the Clippers, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic. The Pelicans, Knicks and Nuggets are also expected to be interested.
Jackson, 31, is a former Boston College standout who's played 12 seasons in the NBA. He averaged 10.7 points per game with the Clippers last season while shooting 43.3 percent from beyond the three-point line.
Most impressively, Jackson scored 20 or more points in nine playoff games. His strong postseason showing could raise his price tag. He made just $2.3 million last season.
The Celtics' backcourt is in flux after trading Kemba Walker to the Thunder in June. Right now, Marcus Smart and Payton Pritchard are the only point guards on the roster, and Smart could on the way out. Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix reports Brad Stevens is "frustrated" with his play.
Last week, the Celtics were rumored to be pursuing Lonzo Ball, though the Bulls appear to be the front-runner for the 2017 No. 2 overall pick. It would be difficult for the Celtics to acquire Ball with their financial predicament, anyway. A sign-and-trade deal with the Pelicans would result in Boston getting hard capped.
On Monday, NBA Insider Marc Stein reported the Celtics were interested in an Isaiah Thomas reunion, but he wouldn't be anything more than a flier.
Regardless, Jackson, who averages 12.6 points per game in his career, would give the Celtics a dependable, offensive-minded point guard — something they lack. NBA free agency begins Monday at 6:00 p.m. EST.
