According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Boston Celtics have signed Wenyen Gabriel to a training camp deal after trading Robert Williams. With Williams leaving the Celtics are looking for depth in their frontcourt. Gabriel will be competing for this important role, during training camp.
Gabriel, who is from Kentucky and played high school basketball at Wilbraham & Monson Academy in Massachusetts has had a diverse NBA journey. He has had stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, LA Clippers, Sacramento Kings, Portland Trail Blazers and Brooklyn Nets.
His time with the Lakers last season was quite notable. In 68 games played he averaged 5.5 points. 4.2 rebounds with a field goal percentage of 59.6%. During the 2023 playoffs, he was strategically utilized by the Lakers in a series against the Golden State Warriors.
via Wojnarowski: “Free agent 7 footer Wenyen Gabriel has agreed to a training camp deal with the Boston Celtics, sources tell ESPN.”
Free agent 7 footer Wenyen Gabriel has agreed to a training camp deal with the Boston Celtics, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 1, 2023
At the age of 26, Gabriel continues to showcase his potential. He made an impact by helping South Sudan secure its first spot in the 2024 Olympics during this summer’s FIBA World Cup. With averages of 9.2 points and 6.8 rebounds, in five games played his performance garnered attention from teams including the Celtics as reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Can Wenyen Gabriel Provide Crucial Frontcourt Depth for the Celtics?
The Celtics have expressed interest in utilizing Gabriel’s versatility and energy as they gear up for the new season. Even with his shorter stints with the Clippers and Nets teams have recognized his potential on the court. Despite frequent team changes Gabriel possesses skills that the Celtics are eager to explore during their training camp.
With major shifts happening within NBA franchises, opportunities arise for players like Gabriel to showcase their value and secure spots on teams that need to improve their rosters before the season starts. Given that the Celtics traded Robert Williams III Gabriel’s signing comes at a crucial time.
In addition to acquiring Gabriel, the Celtics have also brought in Neemias Queta, another man who could potentially fill in for Williams. Together they can offer the support in the frontcourt, for the Celtics during the season.
Jrue Holiday is being traded to the Celtics, per @wojespn pic.twitter.com/afGZEO9mPX
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 1, 2023
The Boston Celtic’s first regular season game is scheduled for October 25 against the New York Knicks. The potential starting five include Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford—providing a balanced mix of experience and promising talent.