Celtics Sign Center Jason Collins

Sounds like the Celtics filled their backup center void. They just signed Jason Collins.

Sources: Celtics set to ink veteran big man Jason Collins to a one-year, veteran minimum deal. Adds 7-footer to bench.

— Chris Forsberg (@ESPNForsberg) July 22, 2012

Stiemsma's locker wasn't even cold, and the Celts are already replacing him w/Jason Collins, last of Atlanta.

— Steve Bulpett (@SteveBHoop) July 22, 2012

I love this signing personally. I was hoping the Celtics would have picked him up a year ago. He's a prototype backup center that knows how to play. Sure, he can't throw the ball into the ocean and he can't rebound, but he will fit in nicely on defense.

Sources: Celtics sign Jason Collins - Boston Celtics Blog - ESPN Boston

Collins allowed a mere 0.748 points per play last season, ranking in the 88th percentile among all NBA players, according to Synergy Sports data. He's stout in the post and can defend the pick-and-roll. Able to match up with players of all shapes and sizes, Collins has the potential to thrive in Boston the way Stiemsma did when he settled into the team's defensive system, though Collins is not as much of a shot-blocker or rebounder.