Celtics Linked With Perfect Luke Kornet Replacement

As the Boston Celtics get ready for a massive offseason, the front office has a lot of big decisions to make around the roster. Boston is expected to look very different come next season, and this could see them move on from some crucial contributors.

More Celtics news: Celtics Send 8-Word Message to Fans on Jayson Tatum Injury

One of those is backup center Luke Kornet, who is scheduled to be a free agent. It remains to be seen what the team will do with Jornet, but there is some thought about Boston letting him walk in free agency.

If this were to happen, there would be a big hole to fill along the frontcourt. But the Celtics could look to target this in the upcoming NBA Draft since they have multiple picks to use.

In a new mock draft by Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report, the Celtics grab a solid replacement for Kornet. This would be center Ryan Kalkbrenner out of Creighton.

"Ryan Kalkbrenner put together another productive season of post scoring, finishing and shot-blocking. He'll head back to the NBA after participating last May and improving marginally over this past season as a three-point shooter.

The upside with Kalkbrenner isn't overly exciting unless that three-point shot becomes a regular weapon at the next level. Teams will be evaluating his jumper closely in workout settings in May and June. But 7'1" size, a refined inside game and defensive presence create a high floor that is attractive for a likely second-round pick."

Kalkbrenner put up some impressive numbers this past season, averaging 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. His skill set could fit in nicely with this Celtics roster, and if he were to impress during training camp, he could maybe earn some rotation minutes.

More Celtics news: Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Makes Major Announcement After Achilles Injury

The center is a great screener, and head coach Joe Mazzulla could use him to help set offensive plays. Kalkbrenner is also a decent 3-point shooter, as he shot 34.4 percent from distance this past season.

While he may be the greatest shooter, there will be time for him to develop his game even more. Boston values players like this, and this could be a steal for the Celtics at the top of the second round if he were to fall to them.

More Celtics news:

Perfect Trade Partner For Celtics' Jrue Holiday Couldn't Be Any Clearer

Jayson Tatum Injury Has One Major Bright Spot For Celtics

Celtics 'Most Likely' Player to be Traded This Offseason Revealed

For more news and notes on the Boston Celtics, visit Boston Celtics on SI.