After conflicting reports about the situation, the Boston Celtics made it official and signed veteran big man Greg Monroe to a 10-day contract on Sunday.
Monroe was a member of the Celtics last season, averaging 10.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocks in 19.1 minutes per game. However, he was a non-factor during their run in the playoffs, and was eventually re-signed by the team this year.
Despite this deal being short, Boston expects Monroe to play significant minutes with the team, especially since centers Al Horford, Aron Baynes and Robert Williams are all dealing with injuries.
Monroe, a nine-year veteran, saw the lowest production of his career this season. He played 38 games for the Toronto Raptors, averaging 4.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.2 assists; way below his career averages of 13.2 points, 8.3 boards, and 2.1 dimes. His stint with the Celtics could be a golden opportunity for him to show that he can still play at an elite level.
At 28 years old, Monroe is younger than Horford or Baynes, and more experienced than Williams. How well he fits with Boston this time around remains to be seen, but if he can be the double-double player that he's capable of being, he might be able to stick around for the Celtics' playoff run.
Monroe is expected to suit up for the Celtics as they host the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday.