Former Celtic Player Publicly Expresses Frustration About His Former Team

Former Celtics center Daniel Theis has recently made comments, opening up about his frustrations regarding the lack of playing time for the Indiana Pacers this season. At 31 years old, Theis may not have many years left in the NBA, so every game matters for the 7-year veteran.

Trade to Indiana

After playing 21 games for the Celtics in the 2021/2022 season, Theis was involved in a trade package sent to the Pacers in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon. Following this trade, Theis only played in a further 7 games that season, and his minutes decreased by over 3 per game. However, in the most recent season, Theis' playing time has reduced even further, with him yet to appear on the court.

The Pacers will trade Malcolm Brogdon to the Celtics for a package including Daniel Theis, Aaron Nesmith and a 2023 first-round pick, per @wojespn pic.twitter.com/kuEoFDl7ov— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 1, 2022

This seasons Frustrations

The Pacers are aiming to play their younger talents this season, which is why the veteran Theis has not seen playing time over players like Myles Turner, Jalen Smith, and Isaiah Jackson. In a recent interview with MassLive, Daniel did not hold back his frustrations, as he firmly believes he should be playing, especially after his outstanding summer performances, including winning the FIBA World Cup with Germany.



This may be Theis' last season in Indiana since next season includes a team option for the Pacers. With him out of the rotation, it is unlikely that they will exercise that player option and pay an additional $9.5 million for someone they have no plans for.

Boston Return?

With the uncertainty of Theis' future, we can consider possible destinations for him next season. He himself has not ruled out the possibility of returning to the Celtics. Theis has already had two tenures with the team, signing with the Celtics in 2017 and then being traded there again in 2022. He has spent the majority of his NBA career playing in Boston and has expressed his openness to returning, with playing time being his highest priority.


Credits
MassLive