Are Boston Celtics close to extending Tyler Zeller?
The Boston Celtics and Tyler Zeller are in a tricky situation. The Celtics are more than willing to lock Zeller up on a long-term deal before the October 31st deadline, but aren't willing to do so at a price that's perceived to be at or above his market value.
After the deadline passes, the chance of keeping Zeller or grabbing him at an appropriate cost drops dramatically, when the restricted free agent enters an unprecedented marketplace next summer.
So, what's going to happen? Basketball Insiders has a closer look right here:
"The Celtics and Zeller have talked about a deal and there is a belief if Zeller wants to lock in security, the C’s would be open to a deal. The problem is if Zeller wants to maximize his value he may have to take a trip through restricted free agency. There is a deal possible between Zeller and the Celtics; it’s about 50/50, according to sources close to the process."
There's always risk involved from the player's side. If Zeller doesn't sign and suffers a serious injury or finds himself out of Brad Stevens' rotation, his value obviously drops and his opportunity to grab good long-term money goes out the window.
It's a back-and-forth worth monitoring if you're a Celtics fan.
(h/t: Basketball Insiders)
