NBA: Looking At What Lies Ahead This Summer For Every Eliminated Playoff Team

April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) and guard Chris Paul (3) react from the bench against Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) and guard Chris Paul (3) react from the bench against Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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Boston Celtics

The Celtics were eliminated this year by the Atlanta Hawks in a tough six-game series defeat in the NBA postseason.

Evan Turner is the lone unrestricted free agent this year for the Celtics. If they can re-sign him, they will have about the same team that gave the Hawks such a difficult run, but the sad part is this team was not even close to contender level.

How can this be fixed?

First of all, Kevin Durant is their main target in free agency, but he has a small likelihood of going to Boston in my opinion. Their next option is in the draft. They received Brooklyn’s first round pick this year which is most likely the third pick in the draft.

With the third pick, certain mock drafts have Boston selecting Buddy Hield.

The draft is an option, KD is an option, but also just plain free agency can turn them into contenders. Such names as Al Horford or Al Jefferson could give the Celtics what they need to play big-man ball down low. Plus, they can also try to trade for a superstar. Pre-draft Celtics also have that pick to throw around at teams which could potentially cause a mix-up of huge names such as Paul George or Jimmy Butler to come to Boston.

Look the Danny Ainge and the Celtics to be VERY active this NBA offseason as they try to return Boston to its championship form.

Next: Charlotte Hornets