The Celtics intend to waive forward/center Wenyen Gabriel from their preseason roster, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Gabriel was on an Exhibit 9 contract, meaning he received no guarantees to make the team and is not likely headed to the Maine Celtics of the G League. Or if he is, he won’t be eligible for a bonus.
Gabriel, 26, spent last season with the Lakers and at times offered some underrated and valuable minutes. In 68 appearances, he averaged 5.5 points and 4.2 rebounds.
He is a native of Khartoum, Sudan and has also spent time with the Clippers, Nets, Trail Blazers and Kings since entering the NBA out of Kentucky in 2019.
The Celtics are looking to fill the void at the center position after they traded Robert Williams to the Trail Blazers as part of the deal for guard Jrue Holiday.
They currently have 10 players on regular guaranteed contracts, with Lamar Stevens, Luke Kornet, Svi Mykhailiuk and Dalano Banton on partially guaranteed or non-guaranteed deals. Also, DJ Steward is on an Exhibit 10 deal.
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