Celtics' Backup Center Dilemma: Vucevic or Garza?

0:00On April 17th nobody saw this coming at the start of the season, but now the Boston Celtics face a real choice for back-of-center in the playoffs. Veteran Nikola Vusovic, or breakout Luca Garza. Vusovic got traded from the Chicago Bulls at the deadline in February, while Garza has been lighting it up off the bench all year. Vusovic has only played 16 games after missing time with the fractured finger, putting of 9.7 points in 6.6 rebounds in, 21 minutes a game. His shootings at a career low 43.9% from the field, but surprisingly his defense has stepped up with a 1.0. Defensive box plus minus, best in years, Garza from Washington DC is having his best season ever across the board, 8.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 57.7% from the field, and 43.3 from deep. Vusovic's defense improved to a 0.2 mark, a big jump from his past negative numbers. Coach Joe Mazula is leaning toward Vusovic so far, giving him more minutes in those 16

1:05games together. Last time against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 1st, Vusovic dropped an 11-point double-double in 20 minutes while Garza sat. Same story in most matchups versus the New York Knicks, they're likely next foes. Garza has been scorching lately though, averaging 15 points over his last 5, and a career high 27 in the finale against Orlando. Vusovic might start his back up, but that leash could snap quick if the offense stays cold. The playoffs will decide who owns that spot. That's your update from Boston Celtics News today, powered by AI. I'm Corey, with the story.