The NBA’s evolution into a fast-paced, perimeter-heavy league begs for big men who can space, rebound, and switch. Two teams—Boston and San Antonio—answered that call with savvy and investment.
Luka Garza joins the Celtics on a 2-year, $5.5M fully guaranteed deal. Garza, a former NCAA star, averaged a scorching 23 points and 10+ rebounds at Iowa. His low-cost, high-upside presence offers Boston depth and interior spacing.
Grade: B – Excellent floor-spacing, needs time to adjust defensively.
Luke Kornet, a second-round pick remade into a versatile NBA center, signed a massive 4-year, $41M deal with the Spurs. At 7’2”, Kornet baptizes mismatches with 3-point range (35.9%) and rim protection.
Grade: A – Underrated value; Spurs bet on modern big skills.
Stats:
- Garza posted 20+ PPG and 10+ RPG his senior year.
- Kornet averaged 2.4 3P/g last season, converting at nearly 36%.
Team Fit & Future Outlook:
Celtics add affordable depth behind Horford and Tatum—Garza can emerge as a rotational stretch five.
Spurs lean into their developmental model, offering Kornet time to grow within a young core led by Victor Wembanyama.
