NBA Free-Agency Rumors: Celtics Would Be Wise to Sign Nick Young

The Boston Celtics must do their best to get younger and add more of a punch to their offense this offseason. Nick Young fits both of those needs despite his shortcomings elsewhere. 

According to Fox Sports' Sam Amico, the Celtics are considering Young as a replacement for Ray Allen.

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Ray Allen meeting with Heat and Clippers. Celtics said to be strongly considering free agent Nick Young as potential replacement.

— Sam Amico (@SamAmicoFSO) July 5, 2012"

Young is a tough player to judge. He can score the ball at will when he wants to, but other times he makes you cringe with his ineptitude. He's an awful defender and doesn't shoot a high percentage from the field (40 percent from the floor last year). 

He's a 6'7'' swingman who excels in an up-tempo game. He's excellent off the bounce, and he makes his fair share of acrobatic shots in traffic. He isn't a great shooter, but he and Rajon Rondo would work wonders in the open floor.

Young isn't someone you want to pay a lot for. He's worth a mid-level exception or a short-term deal. His focus and attitude are too erratic to command otherwise, but Boston should consider it. He's only 27, and his athleticism would be a welcome addition to Boston's veteran squad.

I mean, yes, Young does do things like this:

At times, he baffles you with his "what-was-he-thinking?" moments. He vexes coaches with his prima-donna attitude and lack of focus, but he could blossom in the right situation.

Doc Rivers and the Celtics' veterans could be the perfect antidote.

Kevin Garnett and Rondo would not allow Young to get too out of control, and he wouldn't be expected to carry the team. This would help negate his poor shot selection, and he would be forced to pass in Boston's offense. 

Celtic fans may not be too keen on this potential signing. Young is a polarizing player who can be more frustrating than not at times, but he's your typical low-risk/high-reward signing.

Boston doesn't have much to lose in this situation.

At best, they find an "instant-offense" player off of their bench. At worst, Young is a malcontent undeserving of his new deal and they let him walk.

It's a win-win scenario for a team desperately in need of a shot in the arm.