NBA rumors: Celtics, Greg Monroe agree to one-year deal

The Celtics received some frontcourt help Friday in the form of center Greg Monroe.

According to ESPN.com, Boston and Monroe agreed to a one-year $5 million deal. The Pelicans had also been linked, but could only offer Monroe $2.2 million.

The report stated New Orleans made a hard push, assuring Monroe a starting spot, but he chose the Celtics anyway, even with Al Horford already on their roster.

New Orleans was able to offer only $2.2M to Monroe for balance of season. Cousins was injured past cutoff date to get Disabled Player Exception. Celtics had $8.4M to use via Gordon Hayward injury.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 2, 2018

Monroe became a free agent Friday after clearing waivers following a contract buyout with the Suns on the remainder of his $17.8 million salary this season.

The Celtics (37-15) lead the Eastern Conference standings, but have lacked frontcourt depth. Monroe, 27, is averaging 10.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game this season.