BOSTON – The Boston Celtics continue to reshape their depth chart this summer. On Tuesday, they dipped into a familiar well by signing former Minnesota Timberwolves wing Josh Minott to a two-year, $5 million deal, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.Josh Minott’s addition follows the Celtics’ agreement with big man Luka Garza, who also comes from the Timberwolves. Boston hopes that bringing in Minott and Garza injects fresh energy into a roster facing significant change. Josh Minott’s deal underlines the Celtics front office pivoting to developing young, cost-effective talent to support their stars.
Celtics Go Back To ‘Familiar Well’ To Sign Two-Way 6’8″ Wing, Josh Minott
Josh Minott’s Path To Boston
Minott, 22, arrived in the NBA as the 45th overall pick in the 2022 Draft out of Memphis. He spent three seasons in Minnesota but never carved out a steady role. Minott averaged 2.6 points and 1 rebound in 6 minutes per game last season, often stuck behind more experienced wings.
When given run in the G League, Minott flashed promise. In 32 games for Iowa, he posted 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. Signing Josh Minott reflects the Celtics’ belief that the lanky 6-foot-8 forward can translate that production to the NBA level with the right opportunity.
Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reported Minott asked the Timberwolves to decline his team option so he could pursue a better fit elsewhere. Minnesota agreed, freeing Minott to find a new home where he could grow. For Boston, this is a low-risk, high-upside swing.
Depth Needed After Offseason Shakeup
The Celtics’ frontcourt looks very different than it did during last season’s Finals run. Kristaps Porzingis is gone, traded to Atlanta. Jrue Holiday was dealt away too. Luke Kornet joined the Spurs. Longtime leader Al Horford remains a free agent.
With Jayson Tatum expected to miss extended time, Boston’s wing rotation needs new options. The Celtics’ bet on Josh Minott is simple — provide athletic defense, crash the glass and maybe stretch the floor a bit more than he did in Minnesota.
Room To Prove Himself
Minott’s brief stints with the Timberwolves never quite showed what he could do. He often looked tentative, knowing he was on a short leash. He has the tools — the length, athleticism and feel — but needed a fresh start to show them.
Boston believes they can tap that potential. If Minott’s G League numbers are any sign, there’s scoring upside too. A near 50% field goal mark and respectable three-point attempts suggest he could thrive with more consistent minutes.
With Garza and Minott, Boston adds size and versatility. Both arrive hungry, both know each other well from their Timberwolves days, and both will get chances to make an impact off the bench.
A Calculated Risk
By signing Minott and Garza, the Celtics lean into their player development program. They’ve turned overlooked players into contributors before.
If Horford does not return, the Celtics must rely on young depth. Neemias Queta and Garza will battle for frontcourt minutes. Minott, meanwhile, slots in as a switchable forward who can defend multiple spots.
Boston’s bet is clear: invest now, reap the rewards later. If it works, Josh Minott’s addition could become another smart low-cost move in a summer full of big changes for the Celtics.
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