Report: Celtics extend Luke Kornet’s one-year contract originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The “Green Kornet” isn’t going anywhere.
The Boston Celtics kicked off NBA free agency by bringing back big man Luke Kornet to a one-year deal, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. They wasted no time in re-signing the 7-foot-2 center, whose deal was reported just as free agency began at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Kornet, who turns 29 on July 15, averaged 5.3 points with 4.1 rebounds and one block per game last season with the 2024 NBA champions. He was a key depth player, bolstering the Celtics’ frontcourt behind the oft-injured Kristaps Porzingis and 38-year-old Al Horford.
The reigning champions get their full top 8 back.
Keeping Luke even more important with Porzingis sidelined at the start of the season. Luke will play a big role early and provide important depth even when C is healthy.
The team spirit remains at an elite level for Celtics with Luke in the fold. https://t.co/dk3EGWvubZ
— Chris Forsberg (@ChrisForsberg_) June 30, 2024
Kornet expects to play a more prominent role next season while Porzingis is sidelined. Porzingis is expected to be out until November or December after undergoing surgery to repair a torn retina and a dislocated posterior tibialis tendon. The Latvian suffered the injury in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, but returned for the series-clinching Game 5.
With Kornet back, the Celtics officially have six free agents on the market. Xavier Tillman, Oshae Brissett, Svi Mykhailiuk and JD Davison are unrestricted free agents, while Drew Peterson and Neemias Queta are restricted.
